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Tag: Ogbonnaya Onu

  • FG partners India on atomic energy

    The federal government is working on improving its relationship with the Republic of India on the peaceful use of atomic energy.

    Both countries will be partnering on atomic energy and biotechnology for their mutual benefit.

    Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, stated this on Monday in Abuja, when the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria Abhay Thakur paid him courtesy visit.

    Onu, who appreciated the Indian government for the capacity building of Nigerian scientists, also congratulated them for their success on anti-satellite missiles.

    Read Also: 17 killed in India fire

    Assistant Chief Information officer of the Ministry Edet Etuk, stated this in a statement.

    According to him, “Dr Onu said that Nigeria is building a knowledge society which is innovative-driven so that we use our knowledge to convert our products into goods and services we need.

    “Earlier, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, His Excellency, Abhay Thakur said that India is looking forward for corporation on skills development, peaceful application of space technology in agriculture, atomic energy and innovation in many areas of agriculture.

    “Other areas of interest according the High Commissioner of India are resources mapping and the application of science and technology to all kinds of industrial growth and development.”

  • Expanding revenue base

    With so much dependence on oil over the years, the Nigerian economy last Wednesday got another boost towards diversification.

    Before the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration came on board in 2015, Nigeria had operated an almost absolute mono-economy.

    Oil was the main base of the Nigeria economy with the sector mostly contributing over over 90% of Nigeria’s revenue.

    Then, there was near total neglect of other sectors of the economy as there were huge incomes from sale of oil at the international market.

    But with the crashing of the oil price to around $30 per barrel at the inception of Buhari’s administration in 2015, more Nigerians began to really see oil discovery in Nigeria as source of ‘doom’ and not ‘boom’.

    They specifically blamed the past administrations in the country for not channeling the huge incomes from oil to develop infrastructures and support the growth of other sectors in the country in order to become foreign exchange earners and for Nigeria to have a multi-revenue based economy.

    No wonder when Buhari came on board, he had to restructure the economy towards diversification.

    With very little coming from oil, Buhari, with the right policies and more access to funds and fertilizers, encouraged Nigerians to go back to agriculture.

    He wanted to make the sector what it used to be during the pre-independence and independence era when it was a major foreign exchange earner.

    While so much is said to have been achieved in the agriculture sector in the past three and half years with the savings of billions of dollars from stoppage of rice importation into Nigeria and correspondent increase in consumption of locally produced rice, the Nigerian masses on the street are still yearning for the price of bag of rice to crash in the market.

    They are also awaiting the commencement of rice exportation from Nigeria to other countries to earn foreign exchange.

    So much is also said to have been achieved in the mines and steel development sector.

    While the environment is being created to fully turn around the mines and steel sector, it was claimed that so far in 2018 alone about N3 billion has been remitted to the Federation Account.

    Other sectors of the economy, as a departure from the past, have also been claimed to be doing well in the past three and half years under Buhari.

    To ensure that the Nigeria economy is expanded further, the Buhari’s administration last Wednesday introduced another diversification policy.

    The new effort towards diversification of the economy approved during the Federal Executive Council meeting was a National leather policy.

    The policy, among other objectives, aims to encourage export of finished leather products from Nigeria to boost foreign exchange earnings.

    On the new policy, the Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, said “The Federal Executive Council has approved the National leather and leather products policy that will enable government attract more investment into the sector.

    “We would now harness our leather resources in a manner that will allow us make more gains instead of exporting raw leather or semi-finished products.

    “We want to prepare our nation so that we can process our leather and use the leather in production of finished leather products.

    “This has application in almost every sector of our economic life, including footwear, apparels and automobile industry.

    “There is hardly any machine that you will open without finding leather component.

    “This is the only way we can create more jobs and a lot of wealths. And we would be in a position to fight poverty.

    “In any country, they always start with textiles and then leather. Here we have comparative advantage because our Labour cost is low,” he added.

    The Minister went on “As far as light leather is concerned, we are number two in Africa and number 8 in terms of exporting leather in the world.

    “If we harness the leather we have in Nigeria and that we processed our hides and skins, we will be creating a lot of jobs and wealth because of the small scale enterprises that will spring up.

    “You will now be having new businesses springing up. President Buhari is very much interested … that those who want to work can work.

    “In terms of contributions, leather contributes almost $921 million to our economy, as at 2013. There was a time leather was number three in terms of contributions from the non- oil sector. We believe that leather will help us achieve much to the economy.”

    Explaining that possible problems from the policy are being taken care of, he said “On health hazards associated with processing, this is exactly why you have the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and we have the Leather Research Institute in Zaria.

    “This institute is conducting research in the various segments. This is the only organization permitted to offer higher training in the leather industry.

    “When you use certain chemicals, you have to find a way to treat before you can discharge them into any water source. A percentage will be in what is environmentally acceptable. They are working on that at the moment.

    “We are very much aware of that because we have ternaries at the moment. We want to make sure that our people are safe,” he said.

    With the on-going efforts, it is hoped that the abundant resources in Nigeria will be properly harnessed to change the story of the nation.

    That Nigeria will truly become the ‘Giant of Africa’ and a force to reckon with in the international community based on its massive human and natural resources.

  • FEC okays National leather policy

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday approved leather products policy for the country.
    The Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, briefed State House correspondents at the end of FEC meeting chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
    He was with the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed.
    The new policy, he said, is to harness the leather resources in the country in order to export finished leather products out of the country.
    Noting that leather products have imparts in every area of a Nigerian life, he said that it was not in favour of Nigeria to export semi-finished leather products.
    He recalled that for 2013 alone, leather contributed $921 million to the Nigerian economy.
    He said “National leather products policy will enable government attract more investment into the sector. We would now harness our leather resources in a manner that will allow us make more gains instead of exporting raw leather or semi finished products.
    “We want to prepare our nation so that we can process our leather and use the leather in production of finished leather products.
    “This has application in almost every sector of our economic life, including footwear, apparels and automobile industry. There is hardly any machine that you will open without finding leather component. This is the only we can create more jobs and a lot of wealths. We would be in a position to fight poverty.
    “In any country, they always start with textiles and then leather. Here we have comparative advantage because our Labour cost is low.” he said
    As far as light leather is concerned, he disclosed that Nigeria is number two in Africa and number 8 in terms of exporting leather in the world.

    Read Also: Shittu attends FEC meeting

    He said “If we harness the leather we have in Nigeria and that we processed our hides and skins, we will be creating a lot of jobs and wealth because of the small scale enterprises that will spring up. You will now be having new business springing up. President Buhari is very much interest in sense ring that those who want to work can work.
    “In terms of contributions, leather contributes almost $921m to our economy, as at 2013. There was a time leather was number three in terms of contributions from the non- oil sector. We believe that leather will help us achieve much to the economy.” he said
    On health hazards associated with processing, he said “This is exactly why you have the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and we have the Leather Research Institute in Zaria.
    “This institute is conducting research in the various segments. This is the only organization permitted to offer higher train in leather industry. You use certain chemicals you have to find away to treat before you can discharge them into any water source.
    “A percentage will be in what is environmentally acceptable. They are working on that at the moment. We are very much aware of that because we have ternaries at the moment. We want to make that our people are safe.” he said
    Responding to question on the threat of the Shiites protests in the FCT, Lai Mohammed said “This came up for discussion, the Hon. Minister of FCT was asked to take up the matter with his own security committee.”

  • Nigeria’s energy infrastructure needs $1trillion investments – Osinbajo

    The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday said that Nigeria needs about one trillion US dollars investment to modernize her energy infrastructure.
    He made the remark while declaring open the National Energy and Climate Change summit at the old Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja.
    According to him, the government was doing a lot to attract both domestic and foreign-direct investment into the energy sector.
    The nation’s energy and energy-related policies, he noted, were not only geared towards energy supply security but to also mitigate global warming.
    He commended the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, for organizing the summit.
    Osinbajo, who was represented by the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, said the government has increased transparency and openness in governance to support private investment.
    He said “This important event will provide a high-level forum to discuss energy and climate change as they relate to economic development and environmental protection. 
    “I am happy that this Summit is taking place at a time that FMST is working hard to help move our economy away from being resource based to an economy that is knowledge based and innovation driven. 
    “I am hopeful that at the end of your deliberations, you will be able to provide solutions towards improving sustainable energy supply and access in the country. I am happy that the International Energy Charter (IECh), a reputable inter-governmental energy organization that has the main objective of promoting multi-lateral framework for cross-border cooperation in the field of energy development is here with us. 
    “I recall, the ceremony last year in this same hall, when the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology signed on behalf of Nigeria, the International Energy Charter political declaration after obtaining the approval of the President. 
    “Nigeria then joined the International Energy Charter IECh) as an Observer Member State. I also recall that the Energy Commission of Nigeria immediately signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the IECh Secretariat in order to promote such activities that will be beneficial to our dear country. 
    “Following this, a study of the Energy Investment Risk Assessment (EIRA) for Nigeria has been completed; the report, which has just been presented to us. I am happy that the assessment, which featured four (4) performance indicators, has scored our energy investment risks as moderate. 

    Read Also: Osinbajo, Bindow meet in Aso Villa

    “This is challenging in view of the huge investment of about one trillion US dollars required to modernize our energy infrastructure in twenty-nine years between 2014 and 2043. 
    “The government is doing a lot to attract both domestic and foreign-direct investment into the energy sector.” he said 
    He went on “Our energy and energy-related policies are not only geared towards energy supply security but to also mitigate global warming. Our nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Climate Protocol are robust. 
    “To further support private investment, we have increased transparency and openness in governance, instituted several executive orders to remove bottlenecks in business registration and permits, etc. 
    “We are convinced that this will help us create more jobs, create additional wealth and reduce poverty in our country. We will like foreign investors to work with local investors and professionals in line with the Presidential Executive Order No. 5. 
    “We sincerely appreciate the effort and expertise put in by the lECh to get the report presented today. We look forward to greater areas of cooperation as we gear up towards accession to the Energy Treaty. 
    “It is my hope that stakeholders would study the report, and come up with recommendations that will enhance the investment climate in our energy sector. 
    “I am confident that this would guarantee adequate, reliable, cost-effective and environmentally acceptable energy supply for a diversified economy as  articulated in the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, (ERGP).” he said 
    The Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN Prof. Eli Jidere Bala said that ECN instituted the summit to serve as a forum where national issues on energy in all its ramifications will be discussed with the view to facilitating the monitoring and assessment of performance of the energy sector in the execution of government policies on energy.

    Also at the event, the European union head of Cooperation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Kurt Cornelis said the EU has so for committed 150 euros to support Nigeria through several projects cutting across the electricity value chain of the Nigeria electricity sector as well as the off-grid sector.

    He said, “Just to mention a few, the EU from this envelope is co-financing the phase 2 of NESP with 20million euros as well as a support to TCN with 25miliion euros grant to construct the Kura-Jogana-Gwiwa-Daura-Katsina double circuit 330KVA transmission line and substations which will also help evacuate the 1000MW Jigawa solar city project.”

    He also said that the focus of the EU is to increase support to Nigeria’s Climate Change initiatives by working hand in hand with the Federal Ministry of Environment on a new change action to start next year and continue to sensitise and raise awareness at the highest levels about the need to take concrete measures to fight climate change.

    He commended the Federal Government for having the political will to promote the use of renewable energy technology in the overall energy mix of the country.

    He also promised the continued support of the EU and ECOWAS to the country towards ensuring that those without energy access get connected in the shortest possible time.

  • FG to save N3trillion on raw materials

    The Federal Government has revealed that it intends to save N3 Trillion in foreign exchange on raw materials in five years.

    Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu said that the successful implementation of the National Strategy for Competitiveness in Raw Materials and Products Development in Nigeria will save the country this huge amount.

    According to him the successful implementation of this national strategy would yield immense benefits to ensure an irreversible indigenous industrialization process.

    He also said it will increase higher productivity and enhance value addition, adding that it will also generate quality employment, alleviate poverty and create prosperity.

    Speaking at the First National Consultative Forum for Regulatory Establishment in Nigeria in Abuja, Onu called for collective efforts from stakeholders.

    Head of Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Science and Technology, Andulganiyu Aminu made this known in a statement.

    Read Also: Buhari forecloses former DSS boss Daura’s return

    He stated, “The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya  Onu  has said   that successful implementation of the National Strategy for Competiveness in Raw Materials and Products Development in Nigeria will save the country over three Trillion Naira (N3trn) in foreign exchange for the short- term period of five years.

    “Dr. Onu Said that the successful implementation of this national strategy would yield immense benefits to ensure an irreversible indigenous industrialization process, higher productivity and enhance value addition, adding that it will also generate quality employment, alleviate poverty and  create prosperity for the nation.

    “He called for collective effort of the stakeholders with commitment through effective collaboration, cooperation and coordination of various complementary roles for the common goal of driving Nigeria to a higher ranking of global competiveness

    “My expectation is for our regulatory Establishments to apply appropriate conformity assessment measures in ensuring that specific technical requirement of products, services and system meet intentional standard. It is important to ensure, at all times, that certification and accreditation are issued after due diligence, based on professional ethics and values”. He added.

    He also explained that “this is why regulatory bodies, all over world, help nations achieve global competiveness, especially, in building trust for world trade in merchandise and services”

    “Dr Onu stressed the need to effectively coordinate all regulatory bodies in Nigeria and ensure that balance is maintained between the needs of both business and the people.”

    The Federal Government is proposing a new National Research and Innovation Fund Bill that would provide financial support for innovation and research.

    Dr Ogbonnaya Onu disclosed this while addressing participants at the North West sensitization  programme  on  National Science , Technology and Innovation Road Map ( NSTIR)  and the Executive Order 5 held in Kaduna over the weekend.

    He said the administration is working tirelessly to ensure that Nigeria becomes a knowledge- based economy by the year 2030 in line with the provisions of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017 -2020 ( ERGP) of the federal government.

    According to the Minister, the National Science Technology and Innovation Road Map was crafted with a view for a long- time lifespan to take Nigeria to the Promised Land.

    Dr Onu further said that the Executive Order 5 would go a long way in promoting both local and foreign investment in the country as well as create employment, while also stimulating the economy.

    “The Order will also guarantee home- grown capability and capacity to maintain, redesign, reinforce, domesticate and duplicate any infrastructure that is built in Nigeria for self – reliance and development “he added.

    With this, Dr Onu explained, Nigerian innovators and investors in Diaspora would be encouraged to come home, adding that the era of brain drain was over.

     

  • FG disburses N45m grant to inventors, innovators

    The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology (FMST) has disbursed a grant of N45 million to deserving inventors and innovators in Nigeria, Dr Mohammed Jubrin has said.

    Jubrin, who is the Director-General, National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

    The director-general said that the N45 million was disbursed by the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, to inventors and entrepreneurs in 2017.

    He explained that this has assisted the development or the culture of entrepreneurship, which is technology based and after some time, we expect these companies to become key players in the economy.

    Jubril said another N45million had been appropriated this year for disbursement to other inventors and entrepreneurs.

    According to him, at the appropriate time an advertisement will be made so that inventors and innovators could apply and get the opportunity of being supported by the government.
    “The NBTI has been part of the presidential standing committee on inventions and innovation, which identifies innovators, inventors and other technocrats for grants.

    “A committee had been set up with the aim of using industries for the development of Nigeria by harnessing all researches and development results and other innovative efforts for commercialisation.

    “The Chairman of NBTI Board in his wisdom constituted a committee that would address stakeholders’ linkages and collaborations and strategic membership will be articulated so that we would strengthen that aspect.

    “This will spur inventors to have more opportunities in NBTI, fortunately NBTI has been part of the presidential standing committee on inventions and innovations.

    “This a committee that identifies inventors, innovators and other technocrats for grants from the Federal Government.

    Jubril said the board was committed to intensifying linkages and collaborations so that all inventors would have more opportunities in NBTI, saying that the board would lay more emphasis on commercialisation and community incubation.

    “We have a strategic plan that we are following which is coming to an end this year.

    Already, a committee has been set up to develop the second strategic plan that will take up to the end of my tenure in 2022.

    “We will pay more attention to the real commercialisation of research and development results so that we can have new emerging companies that originate from literary works and from knowledge sources.

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    “We will pay attention to community incubation, a situation where you have people fighting in Benue and Taraba because they don’t have anything to do despite they have the abundant raw materials around them.

    He said this called for concern because a state like Benue could feed Africa with food but they didn’t know “what is called food processing, packaging or preservation’’.

    “ We want a situation where products from local markets would start going straight to Shoprite and other super stores,” he said.

  • Mokwa bridge collapse: We did not study the bridge – Agency

    The Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) has confessed that they did not foresee or study the Mokwa bridge before its collapse.

    The agency under the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology said that entire bridges around the area are low line and with a kind of soil that is collapsible, which needs to be revisited.

    Director General NBRRI, Prof. Danladi Matawal revealed that their has been the reoccurance of collapse of bridges both road, railway and culvert around Mouka area because of the terrain of the area.

    Speaking in Abuja at the 2018 NBRRI International Conference, titled, ‘sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the Nigerian construction industry-challenges and the way forward.’

    Prof. Matawal said, “Their has been the re-occurrence of collapse of bridges both road, railway and culvert around Mouka area because of the terrain, their was the need to adequately design to contain extreme flooding situations and I think that the design probably did not take proper consideration of this.

    Read Also: Bridge collapses on Mokwa-Jebba road after heavy rainfall

    “I know we visited about a year ago, two, three collapsed sites in the same environment and it is unfortunate it has re-occurred this year. I think the entire bridges around the area which are low line and with a kind of soil that is collapsible needs to be revisited.

    “I am not sure if it is the same bridge that collapsed but I think after the initial construction, we did not foresee the current collapse because we did not study that particular bridge.

    “I believe that in building collapses we have reduced it to a minimal, their are no many building collapses but we will like to have zero tolerance for it, we will continue our work of intervention and secondly, we will step up our studies of existing bridges, maybe we will make some of these areas that look suspicious an area of attention and send a team to look at other bridges around Mokwa.”

    Minister of Science and Technology Dr Ogbonnaya Onu said that his ministry will support NBRRI in embarking on necessary reasearches.

    His words, “The ministry is determined to support NBRRI in its important task to embark on the necessary research and innovation needed to help build high quality and less expensive roads and houses in the country. This can be achieved through intensifying research on the use of locally available materials for the construction of both roads and houses in Nigeria.”

  • Updated: FEC bids Fayemi farewell 

    The immediate past Minister of Mines and Steel, Kayode Fayemi on Wednesday attended his last Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    The Council held a valedictory session for Fayemi, who has resigned his appointment to run for the governorship election in Ekiti State billed for July 14.

    President Muhammadu Buhari noted that he was reluctantly allowing Fayemi to go to his state because of his constructive contributions at FEC meetings.

    He said “As I sat here, I watched every minister that spoke and about his contributions, this revealed not only intellect but when he is given the necessary time to contribute to important memorandum, he made contributions. This shows commitment to the progressive of this government and the country.

    “By chance he was given the portfolio of solid minerals and steel development and you know that sector was virtually abandoned. During the colonial days, they took what they wanted from us – tin, columbite and the rest were the priorities until they struck oil somewhere, it was simply priority of investment shifted offshore.

    “When he went in, he began to deal with both Nigerians and foreigners that are exploiting the lack of commitment of those who are responsible of that sector before he went there. If you recall the number of children and women that suffered from the effect of mining in Zamfara State and other parts of the country and the people responsible, knowing that Nigeria will dump as decently as possible.

    “He only briefed me occasionally but he was packing them out of the country, with the cooperation of some his colleagues he will come here and let me know.” he said

    He urged Fayemi to get Ekiti State for APC.

    He said “I hope you will get the Ekiti back for the party. The only time I saw the INEC chair was to insist that go voters Education should be emphasized, so that ordinary Nigerians will believe that Nigeria is beginning to respect them and that their PVC is their status.

    “And then couple with the card readers, God willing we are here with the help of technology. Because, previous elections and I am in the position to say so having lost three times and got to Supreme Court, I know if not for technology, we will be doing the same thing.

    “A lot of constituencies were bought, voters were allocated and results were announced and people were told to go to court if they don’t agree with it.

    “Now, for someone who is looking for the next meal, how is he going to get the money to give   to SAN, to demand for justice for his marginalization.

    “So, we thank technology because with the introduction of PVC and the readers’ card, votes counted. Please go and emphasize this to your constituencies, let Nigerians be respected that they can vote anybody across any party and at any constituency.

    “I think that will give them the pride to voluntarily go and vote. It is not easy to go to Supreme Court three times, but I went through it, I wonder how many people will be proud to go through it in this country.

    “So, we certainly wish you the best of luck but it will take me sometimes to get a substantive minister and more so with the 2019 prospects that I have already indicated. But we need a very strong minister, strong in intellect and courage, so as to make sure that both the Nigerian and foreign collaborators of taking away our resources can be checked effectively.

    “We thank you very much for your contribution for your country. Goodbye, we will come for the inauguration.” he added

    Six members of the cabinet were selected from the six geopolitical zones to speak on Fayemi.

    The Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu said that Fayemi is both special and unique.

    According to him, he played important roles in the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC) and creation of the Progressives Governors Forum.

    Read Also:Ekiti 2018: Election ‘Fire’ will consume Fayose, says Fayemi

    Minister of Interior, Abdulraman Danbazzau said “I found him to be a gentle man and an academic of repute.

    “We became very close during the campaigns. We are going to miss him in this chamber because of his contributions to discussions, which have increased the informed decisions we have taken here.

    “I want to wish him success in the campaign and wish he wins the election.” he added

    The Minister of Women Affairs, Amina Alhassan said that Fayemi has repositioned the Ministry of Mines and Steel in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s vision.

    She also noted that Fayemi was a gender friendly minister.

    “He is a He for She and has always included women in his programmes. The Nigerian women miss you already.

    On her part, Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun said “He is a unique public servant.”

    The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi said that Fayemi was instrumental to his success as Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum.

    Amaechi, who was former Rivers State Governor, said “It is difficult to speak about Fayemi. You cannot talk about my success as Chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum without talking about Fayemi. I wish him best of luck.”

    Fayemi’s Deputy, Minister of State for Mines and Steel, Bawa Bwari said that the Ministry will greatly miss him.

    He said “What we met on ground at the Mines and Steel Development Ministry, when we came on board, was so discouraging that we didn’t know where to start from.”

    According to him, the success recorded in the sector in the past three years was due to Fayemi’s leadership.

    The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, who was not part of those selected to speak on Fayemi from the six geopolitical zones, told his colleagues that he had something to say against Fayemi.

    Complaining that Fayemi, who had been very close to him has now been dodging him since his ambition to get Ekiti gubernatorial seat.

    He also pointed out that Fayemi will be more useful at the national level than in Ekiti State.

    Adamu later urged his colleagues to support Fayemi to win the forthcoming Ekiti gubernatorial election.

    In his remarks, Fayemi, who jokingly said that he would have to learn how to dodge bullets, said that his winning Ekiti State Governorship seat will not be a national loss as it will give more opportunity to serve the country and the President better.

    He said “At occasions like this, words normally fail me. But I have to say thank you to Mr. President for the opportunity to serve the people and also for agreeing for me to run for the Ekiti Gubernatorial seat.”

    He also thanked his colleagues for all their supports in moving the country forward and the progress made in the past three years.

    According to him, he had no regret of been called ‘Buhari’s Boy’, because Buhari stood for transparency and accountability.

  • FG to partner Cuba on science and technology

    The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, said on Thursday the Federal Government would be partnering with the Republic of Cuba on science and technology.

    Onu said he would visit Cuba with his team to ensure Nigeria benefits from its relationship with the Caribbean nation.

    The minister stated these when the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Sosa visited him in Abuja.

    He said Nigeria can no longer depend on foreign commodities but would begin to use its resources for the production of what it needs.

    His words: “Nigeria appreciates the Republic of Cuba for its contributions particularly in the health care system. We believe that the relationship between Nigeria and Cuba will continue to grow.

    Read Also:  Lagos to tackle unemployment with ICT

    “Cuba has used its vast technology in developing vaccines that helps in the prevention of diseases and Nigeria looks forward to partnering with Cuba on the development of our science and technology sector.

    “I and my team will soon visit Cuba to make sure we strengthen our relationship with Cuba. Nigeria can no longer depend on just imported commodities but will use its resources for local production.”

     

     

  • Onu task schools to expose students to international competitions

    The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu on Tuesday urged secondary and tertiary institutions in the country to expose their students to more international competitions.

    Onu made the call when the management of Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC) and the winner of the World Mathematics Team Championship, Mr Oluwafemi Adedairo visited him in Abuja.

    NTIC won the World Mathematics Team Challenge after defeating renowned schools across the globe.

    Onu emphasised the need to have well trained students in science in order to convert the enormous raw materials in the country.

    According to him, a mixture of knowledge and development of raw materials will not only create jobs but reduce importation and advertently grow our economy.

    “We are determined to make sure that Nigeria does not remain where people should rely on importing everything.

    “We need to move towards a new direction by producing and exporting.

    “Our economy should be based on knowledge and innovation that is what this victory represents.

    “We need to give young ones good education and expose them to more of such competitions,’’ Onu said.

    While commending the school for its quality of education and exposing the kids to international competitions, the Minister tasked the institution to sustain the feat.

    “The ministry is proud and will like to support the school in any way possible.

    “I am always happy anytime a Nigerian excels in international competition, it is a thing of joy and more importantly if it is younger ones.

    “It is more important when it is science or mathematics because he have the biggest economy in Africa and to make Nigeria the great nation, the younger ones must utilise mathematics and science.

    “No nation has become truly great without emphasising scientific innovations and mathematics.

    “Young people must prevail themselves in that direction so that we can stop importation and create jobs.

    “Let them become entrepreneurs by using their skills to convert the raw materials as well as create additional wealth for the country, we are the biggest economy but we want to go beyond that,’’ Onu said.

    Earlier, the Deputy Managing Director of NTIC, Mr Feuzullah Filbin, said that the feat wouldl serve as a source of inspiration to other students in the country.

    He said that the school also won 81 other medals in competitions within and outside the country.

    Adedairo said that winning the competition demonstrated that his efforts during preparations were not in vein.

    “It was difficult during preparations but now I know that my training was not in vein,’’ he said.

    The 14 year old Senior Secondary one (SSI) student said that he intends to study Petrochemical Engineering.