The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has declared that Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a global hub for innovation, investment, and sustainable technological advancement, positioning the country as a leader in Africa and beyond.
The Minister’s statement was delivered by his Special Assistant, Dr. Patricks Oghuma, during the Interdisciplinary Conference on Climate Change Mitigation held at the Peter Mbah Auditorium in Enugu.
Nnaji emphasized that the conference aligns with the Ministry’s priority areas and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda, which strongly emphasizes innovation. He noted that Nigeria is on the verge of a major digital and technological transformation.
In a significant development, the Minister revealed that President Tinubu has approved the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee on Research and Innovation, with the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology serving as the coordinating body. This initiative aims to dismantle bureaucratic silos that have historically impeded national progress.
According to Nnaji, this strategic move will accelerate Nigeria’s economic diversification, enhance competitiveness, reduce import dependency, and transition the nation into a knowledge-driven economy.
“Today, we gather not just to discuss climate change but to explore how Nigeria can transform cutting-edge research into market-driven solutions—where science meets industry for tangible impact,” Nnaji stated. He highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research, integrating fields such as climate science, engineering, economics, policy, behavioral psychology, and artificial intelligence to develop adaptable solutions.
The Minister also announced the Ministry’s leadership in the Global Clean-Tech Innovation Program (GCIP), an initiative designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in emerging markets. The program seeks to address climate and environmental challenges by supporting sustainable technological advancements in Nigeria.
The conference underscored Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging innovation and technology as key drivers of national development, reinforcing its ambition to become a leading force in Africa’s digital and green economy.
Reported by Pauline Sule (Mrs.), ANIPR
Head (Press & PRU), FMIST