By Matthew Denis
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has disclosed that the government is deploying technology to improve economic growth and reduce poverty in country.
This is contained in a statement released by Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications National Space Research and Development Agency on Monday.
The statement captured the Minister while speaking at the 8th UNGA High-Level Side Event on Social Business, Youth, and Technology in New York, he highlighted the urgent need for international collaboration to promote sustainable development, climate action, and poverty alleviation.
The event, part of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, featured distinguished figures such as Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus and Hon. Mark Stephen Brown, Prime Minister of the Cook Islands. Discussions focused on the vital role of innovation in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and addressing issues like climate change and unemployment.
Minister Nnaji reiterated Nigeria’s support for Professor Yunus’s “Three Zeros” vision: zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions.
He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to utilizing technology to stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment, notably through the adoption of methanol as a renewable energy source to lower carbon emissions, in line with SDGs 7 and 13.
“Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing access to clean energy is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change while promoting inclusive economic growth,” he stated.
Nnaji also presented Nigeria’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Roadmap, a 13-year plan aimed at transitioning the nation into a knowledge-based economy by enhancing innovation and developing a skilled workforce.
Highlighting the role of Nigeria’s youth in driving innovation, he cited examples of young entrepreneurs in agriculture, healthcare, and financial services who are harnessing mobile technology and AI to create impactful solutions.
As the COP29 climate summit approaches, the Minister called for greater global cooperation on climate issues, stating, “Nigeria is committed to working closely with international partners to develop innovative solutions that promote sustainable development.”
Nnaji’s message underscored the necessity of global solutions for global challenges, advocating for technological innovation and youth entrepreneurship as pathways to achieve the SDGs.
He urged the international community to support initiatives aligned with the Three Zeros vision, expressing optimism that collective action could lead to a future of zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero carbon emissions.
This high-level event at the UNGA showcased Nigeria’s leadership in addressing global issues through innovative approaches. Minister Nnaji’s vision for leveraging technology and social business resonated with participants, paving the way for future dialogues on fostering a more inclusive and sustainable global economy.
As leaders explore strategies for a greener and more equitable future, Nigeria’s dedication to innovation and youth empowerment exemplifies the transformative power of technology and social entrepreneurship in creating a better world for all.