By Mohammed Mohammed
The Federal Government has said that it will further solidify bilateral ties with the state of Israel, especially in the areas of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) and socio-economic development.
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu made this known when he received the New Ambassador of the State of Israel to Nigeria, Ambassador Michael Freeman, in his office on Tuesday in Abuja.
In a statement made available after the visit, the Spokesperson for the Ministry, Mr. Afonja Ajibola, said, Onu informed the newly appointed Israeli envoy of the federal government’s desire to diversify Nigeria’s economy using STI especially for it more vibrant and knowledge-based.
The Minister, said: “Nigeria is blessed with Natural resources and we have some of the most intelligent people in the world. We want to diversify our economy, because we believe with the huge human capital, we can add value to our raw materials and create jobs for our youths.”
The Minister commended the cordial and historical diplomatic ties that have existed between both nations, adding that the relationship has yielded positive fruits over the years.
Onu warmly congratulated the new Ambassador on his appointment and urged him to build upon the successes of his predecessors.
Earlier, the Israeli Freeman said that his country was willing to collaborate further with Nigeria on many socio-economic areas, especially challenges that can be solved using Science, Technology and Innovation.
