The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has emphasized the critical role that science and technology play in driving economic transformation and diversification in Nigeria.
Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and Flux Carbon Pte Limited in Abuja, Chief Nnaji highlighted that these sectors are the necessary engines to propel agricultural productivity, wealth creation, poverty alleviation, and food security in the country.
In his remarks, the Minister noted that the MoU signifies a pivotal step in addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges: food security.
“This agreement marks a significant step in our concerted efforts to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time—food security,” he said.
Chief Nnaji described agriculture as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing 25% to the national GDP and providing livelihoods for more than 70% of the population.
However, he acknowledged the sector’s many challenges, including climate change and land degradation, which have contributed to the recent surge in food prices nationwide.
“The current surge in food prices underscores the need for innovative and sustainable solutions,” Chief Nnaji explained.
He further stressed that the Ministry’s partnership with Flux Carbon Pte Limited is part of a broader strategy to collaborate with local and international partners to address these challenges and drive sustainable agricultural and economic growth in Nigeria.
Chief Nnaji highlighted the importance of the Ministry’s collaboration with Flux Carbon Pte Limited, noting that ”this partnership demonstrates the government’s dedication to increasing crop yields through innovative methods, lowering costs for farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Nigeria.”
He emphasized that by focusing on sustainable agriculture, the government aims to not only address immediate food security concerns but also create jobs and foster socio-economic development.
“This partnership is a testament to our government’s commitment to increasing crop yields through innovative methods, reducing costs for farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
“By focusing on sustainable agriculture, we are not only addressing food security but also creating jobs and fostering socio-economic development,” the Minister remarked.
Chief Nnaji commended all the partners for their unwavering commitment to economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and the social well-being of Nigerians.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stressing the Ministry’s impact on the global innovation system.
She pointed out that technology is the bedrock of development for any nation and expressed confidence that the partnership with Flux Carbon Pte Limited will significantly enhance Nigeria’s agricultural yields and food security.
“The signing of this MoU with Flux Carbon Pte Limited will improve agricultural yields in Nigeria and significantly enhance food security.
“Technology is the bedrock of development, and through this collaboration, we aim to achieve the needs of our nation,” she said.