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President Bola Tinubu has instructed relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government to ensure that the findings of research in science and technology are integrated into policies that affect the real sector.
Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President stated that this directive was issued during a courtesy visit by the President of the Nigerian Academy of Science and its fellows at the State House in Abuja on Thursday.
Bola Tinubu and others after the meeting [PHOTO CREDIT: Ajuri Ngelale]
President Tinubu stressed that his administration is pursuing a comprehensive approach to harnessing the innovative capacity of Nigerians across both public and private sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, information technology, and academia.
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He expressed to the leaders of the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS): “The key to unlocking our national contribution to the global economy of tomorrow lies in our actions today. I am fully committed to integrating research and its outcomes into the process of policy formulation and implementation across all areas of national endeavor.”
During his investiture as the Grand Patron of Science by the Academy, the President highlighted the increasing reliance on research for solutions and actionable data, particularly in health and education, due to the pace of global change and challenges.
“The Ministers of Education, Health and Social Welfare, and Budget and Economic Planning are present. All relevant ministries should prioritize incorporating scientific research into process development in areas of strategic advantage. We must leverage research outcomes to enrich our policies,” said the President.
Professor Ekanem Braide, President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, advocated for the establishment of a national research fund as the country transitions to a knowledge-driven economy.
Professor Braide expressed gratitude to the President for supporting the creation of a national research fund, emphasizing its potential to address challenges and accelerate progress by harnessing input from all sectors, including business, academia, and the public sector.
He recommended enhancing science research infrastructure and funding in the nation’s 265 universities, 84 polytechnics, and 205 colleges of education to further the Academy’s efforts in improving the lives of Nigerians.
The President acknowledged the historic achievement of Professor Ekanem Braide as the first female President of the Nigerian Academy of Science since its establishment in 1977.
