Aluta News
Ms Samuela Isopi, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said this on Thursday when she led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, in Abuja.
Isopi said the purpose of the visit was to strengthen the EU bilateral agreement with Nigeria on STI.
“We are very pleased because science, technology and innovation in today’s world are crucial to development and to all sectors, be it energy, climate change, food security among others.
“Research is really at the centre and very important to all sectors,’’ she said
Nnaji said the meeting was a crucial step in harnessing the transformative power of technology for mutual growth and development.
The minister, who said innovation and research were key to progress, said that the ministry was committed to fostering joint research centres in areas of renewable and climate-smart agriculture.
“By leveraging the expertise and resources of our European partners, we aim to drive technological advancements and address shared regional challenges.
“Additionally, we are keen to collaborate on establishing innovation hubs to support start-ups and SMEs in fields like artificial intelligence,’’ Nnaji said.
According to him, investment in scientific research and development is vital for economic growth and Nigeria is committed to creating conducive environment for such investments.
He said the EU Erasmus and Horizon programmes enhanced educational and research exchange between Nigeria and Europe.
He added that Nigeria’s participation in the programme would be increased by streamlining the application process and providing dedicated support.
The minister said that the upcoming EU Innovation Forum, slated for July in Lagos, would be a significant milestone through the collaboration.
NAN