Edo Takes Center Stage at The 21st National Council on science, Technology and Innovation
By Efese osayekemwen Jim
The Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (FMSTI) has held its 21st National Council on Science, Technology, and Innovation meeting with the theme “STI for All: Advancing the Actualization of Nigeria’s Agenda 2050” at the National Space Research and Development Agency in Abuja.
Declaring the meeting open, the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (FMSTI), Dr. Adele Olorunnimbe Mamora, said the National Council on Science, Technology, and Innovation is the highest policy making body on Science, Technology, and Innovation in the country after the National Research and Innovation Council, which is headed by Mr. President.
Hon. Mamora further stated that it has been irrefutably proven that any nation that desires development must place science, technology, and innovation on the front burner, as they can fit into any level of development and bring socio-economic dividends to the country.
Presenting Edo State Memoranda, the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Yuwa Naps, informed the council of the developmental strides made by the Obaseki led administration in the area of Science Technology and Innovation, which include the construction of modular plant refineries, a petrochemical company, and the provision of optical fiber connectivity to boost economic activities in government offices and across the eighteen Local Government Areas in the state, with a special focus on learning centers, primary health care, and many more.
The Permanent Secretary prayed the Council to note the need for the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (FMSTI) to assist Edo State by attracting and directing local and international investors to the state, where ease of doing business is a top priority for the state government.
Highpoint of the meeting was the introduction and inauguration of the Community of Practice which consists of all Permanent Secretaries of STI from the thirty six states of the country, the FCT, and international partners with the Edo State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Digital Economy, Science, and Technology, Ms. Yuwa Naps, nominated as its first coordinator.