Nigeria, EU Synergise On Scientific Research To Foster Economic Growth
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigeria and the European Union, EU, are focusing on building capacity, enhancing research infrastructure and fostering collaborations in renewable energy, biotechnology and space research among others.
The upcoming EU Innovation Forum is one of such collaborations, that will provide a platform for Nigerian and European innovators, enterpreneurs, and policy makers to exchange ideas and explore synergies for the social economic advancement of the country.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, while playing host to the European Union, EU, Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja, said that investment in scientific research and development is vital for economic growth of Nigeria.
Nnaji said, Nigeria is committed to creating conducive environment for investment in the sector which will foster economic advancement of the nation especially by partnering European research institutions.
The Minister, said that innovation and research are key to progress, and the Ministry is ready to foster joint centers in areas, such as renewable energy and climate smart agriculture by leveraging on the expertise and resources of European partners.
According to the Minister, the aim of collaborating with the European partners is to drive technological advancement and shared regional challenges of the country.
The Permanent Secretary, of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, appealed to the European Union Ambassador, to assist the Ministry in training research and scientific officers of the Ministry so as to enhance their capacity and transform them into world class scientific officers.
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi, had earlier said that the purpose of her visit is to collaborate with the Ministry in the innovation, science and technology sector and to maintain cordial relationship which will boost research and development in the country.