600 innovators benefitted from FG’s invention, innovation grants since 2005 — Minister

The Federal Government announced that over 600 innovators and inventors have received grants since the establishment of the Presidential Standing Committee on Innovations and Inventions (PSCII) in 2005. 

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology,  Chief Uche Nnaji, made this assertion on Wednesday in Abuja during a grant distribution event for 32 recipients.

Nnaji noted that the grants aim to foster and support innovation within the country. The PSCII, inaugurated by the Federal Government in October 2005, has been awarding these grants since its inception. 

Represented by Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Nnaji noted that collaboration with the private sector is key to achieving the program’s goals.

 This partnership is expected to lay a solid foundation for technological advances and enhance Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

Nnaji also highlighted that global competitiveness is crucial for job creation, wealth generation, and improving the overall quality of life in Nigeria. He urged the grant recipients to use the funds wisely and to work diligently to address issues like unemployment and poverty.

At the event, Azuftama Dahiru, Deputy Director in the Department of Technology Acquisition and Adaptation (TAA), revealed that a total of N47 million was awarded to the 32 beneficiaries, with individual grants ranging from N1 million to N5 million. 

She noted that the program is designed to support Nigerians, particularly those in the informal sector with promising technological ideas that could positively impact the economy and society.

Director-General of the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), Patricia Chukwu, said stated that advancing inventions and innovations is essential for technological progress, efficient production, and economic growth in Nigeria.