The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the maiden National Science, Technology and Innovation Communication Conference (STICOMMS 2025), describing it as a landmark initiative for the country.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, conveyed his ministry’s full endorsement, calling the gathering unique and timely. He assured the organisers — the African University of Science and Technology (AUST) and its partners, led by AUST President, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS — of the ministry’s collaboration to achieve the objectives of the conference.
Chief Nnaji explained that the event comes at a crucial period when the ministry is intensifying efforts to showcase research and innovation outcomes from its agencies. To strengthen coordination, he pledged to assign two senior officials of the ministry to the local organising committee (LOC) to ensure active involvement in planning and participation.
Prof. Onwualu, who led the STICOMMS 2025 LOC on a courtesy visit to the minister, said the meeting was aimed at securing government support for the conference scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 October 2025 at AUST, Abuja.
He outlined key areas of partnership, including ministerial endorsement, delivery of a keynote address at the opening session, and the nomination and sponsorship of ministry staff. He also proposed showcasing selected innovations, mobilising research agencies under the ministry to participate actively, and featuring the ministry’s profile and achievements in the official programme.
The engagement, according to both parties, marks the beginning of a broader collaboration to strengthen science, technology and innovation communication as a driver of national development.