We’re committed to ensuring innovation becomes pillar of national development – Minister
By Matthew Denis
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology ,Chief Uche Nnaji has disclosed that the federal government is committed towards ensuring that Nigerians compete favourably with global stage on innovations.
He made the disclosure while making his Keynote address at the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Demo day recently.
The Minister while speaking on the Theme: ‘Beyond the Horizon: Shaping Nigeria’s Space Future, ” says it resonates deeply with the objectives of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
“As a Ministry, we are committed to ensuring that innovation becomes a pillar of national development, and events like this Accelerator Demo Day serve as the launchpad for our future successes. Together, let us continue to push boundaries, forge partnerships. and shape Nigeria’s space future.
” It reflects the ambition that lies at the heart of our policies-to propel Nigeria forward as a leader in science, technology, and space innovation. This ambition extends beyond rhetoric; it is about creating new industries, empowering our youth, and ensuring Nigeria contributes meaningfully to the global technology economy.
“We live in an age where space technology plays a transformative role across multiple sectors. From precision agriculture and healthcare to connectivity and disaster management, innovative solutions are becoming critical to our nation’s development, digital economy.
” I am particularly impressed by the startups showcased today– each bringing ideas that not only reflect ingenuity but also align with our national priorities. For_instance, the agricultural technologies aimed at increasing yield and the healthcare innovations Leveraging AI and blockchain are examples of how technology can address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
Chief Nnaji stressed that these startups are not just building products; they are creating new future one that is e more inclusive, sustainable, and competitive.
According to him this Accelerator Program represents an important step in bridging the gap between innovation and industry, ensuring that the brilliant ideas we generate translate into real-world solutions.
“Fostering Public-Private Collaboration
As government leaders, our role is to create an enabling environment- one that fosters collaboration between the public and private sectors, between entrepreneurs and investors, and between local talent and global partners.
He stressed that through the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator, We are opening doors for startups to gain market access, investment opportunities, and critical policy support.
“It is my hope that these startups will use this platform not, just to attract investment but to network, learn, and scale their solutions to global markets.
I assure you that the ministry will continue to support initiatives like this- ensuring that our nation S innovators receive the support they need to thrive.
” This is also my alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of creating jobs, empowering communities, and positioning Nigeria as a global innovation hub. Encouraging Innovation in Space Technology..
He noted that the future of space technology in Nigeria is vast and promising with our youth at the forefront of innovation, I am confident that we can leapfrog technological boundaries and build solutions that impact not just Nigeria but the entire continent.
“The startups here today embody that vision, developing innovations that cover everything from satellite communication to agriculture, security, and education
Our goal is clear: to ensure that Nigeria’s participation in space technology creates opportunities for job creation, enhances connectivity, and contributes to sustainable development.
“I encourage every entrepreneur, investor, and partner here today to look beyond the challenges and focus on the opportunities, the journey to building a prosperous and innovative future for Nigeria begins today. I urge the startups here to seize this moment -to demonstrate resilience, creativity, and commitment in scaling their ideas.”
