STI Expo has increased SME growth in the country – Onu
The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu stated that the annual Science, Technology and Innovation EXPO of the Ministry has contributed significantly to the creation of many Micro and Small Scale Businesses in Nigeria.
Onu made this remarks at the closing ceremony of the 2021 edition of the Science and Technology EXPO themed; “Science, Technology and Innovation for Economic Recovery and Sustainability amidst Covid-19 challenges”, in Abuja on Friday.
The Minister noted that the annual EXPO will help Nigeria quickly achieve economic diversification and ensure that Nigeria becomes one of the leading global economies.
In his words, “The technologies that we develop in the country today will be the foundation for new start-ups that will grow into large scale businesses tomorrow”.
He pointed out that the resilience and untapped potential of Nigeria’s teeming youth could be harnessed for socio-economic growth.
He said; “Nigeria is blessed to have majority of our population as young people….we have our young people as one of the most intelligent in the world”
He commended President Buhari for his committing 0.5% of the nations GDP to be invested in the development of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), adding that effective utilization of STI will accelerate national development.
The Minister also applauded the President’s scholarship award to three secondary students who emerged winners at the 2021 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award Competition.
According to him, the scholarship is to study up to PhD level, in any science-related discipline of their choice at any university in the country.
He advised Nigerian youths to be optimistic as the future of Nigeria belongs to them, adding that Nigerian youths should be equipped with all necessary skills and resources to enable them achieve greatness.
Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Sunday Edet Akpan, said the STI EXPO was a right step in the right direction for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
The Permanent Secretary assured Nigerians, that the Ministry will continue to develop policies that will support the growth of science and technology in the country.
In a goodwill message, The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama, reiterated the need for Nigeria to invest at least 2% of its GDP on Scientific Research and Development, adding that it will help achieve a knowledge and innovation- driven economy.
Also speaking, the Minister of Health Dr. Osagie Ehanire, said the EXPO will ensure that Nigeria takes its place among the comity of technologically advanced nations of the world.
