Abuja: Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has highlighted the urgent need for the comprehensive implementation of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policies to foster national development. The minister made this call during the eighth edition of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology Media Award Ceremony and Gala Night in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Chief Nnaji emphasized that Nigeria’s vision for development will remain unfulfilled if the critical role of science and technology in daily life is not acknowledged. He pointed out that while various governments across the continent recognize the importance of integrating science and technology into their development strategies, many have failed to move beyond discussions in conferences and workshops.
The minister expressed concern that many development plans are still merely theoretical, noting that numerous trained scientists are leaving Nigeria in search of better opportunities abroad. “We are in e
ffect producing doctors and researchers for the developed world, while many of our own hospitals are struggling with shortages of personnel,” he lamented. He urged the media to spotlight this issue, asserting that it is crucial for the government to implement policies that promote science and technology.
Chief Nnaji further stated that such policies would provide necessary motivation and incentives for Nigerian scientists to remain in the country and contribute to its development and that of Africa at large. He also encouraged the media to support local innovations, acknowledging the ongoing efforts of Nigerian scientists despite existing challenges.
Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), highlighted the role of biotechnology as a beacon of hope in agriculture, offering innovative solutions to challenges like climate change and food production. He emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in bridging advancements in biotech
nology with the public.
Dr Rose Gidado, Director of the Agricultural Biotechnology department, noted the successful partnership between OFAB and the media over the past eight years, which has transformed the narrative around biotechnology in Nigeria. This collaboration has been instrumental in the commercial success of biotech crops like genetically modified beans and TELA maize.
Dr Jean Baptiste, Regional Representative of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), remarked on the fundamental role of science and technology in advancing agriculture, highlighting innovations that could address food insecurity and empower smallholder farmers across Africa.
The event’s keynote presentation by Dr Umar Bindir, Former Director General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion, focused on the media’s role in intellectual property rights. The ceremony concluded with awards recognizing excellence in media reporting, with Mr. Oche Odeh of Africa STI declared the overall winner.