…Executive order 5 is our magic wand for self-reliance
By Hillary Asemota
The Minister of Science Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, on Thursday lamented that Nigeria has become a dumping ground for all sorts of imported products even as he expressed optimism that Executive Order 5 (EO5), is Nigeria’s magic wand for self-reliance and sustainability.
At the launch which ostensibly kick-started the implementation of the policy visa-vis the complaints and appeal procedure task team in Abuja, the Minister tasked them to work hard until the goal is achieved where Nigerians will formally take over the planning, executive and implementations of Science and Engineering contracts.
He attributed the success of China, Japan and India in industrialization and self-reliance to a similar policy like the EO5, adding: “Nigerians are tired of importing everything we use.”
We must look inwards. We must aim to be self-sufficient, so as to become self-reliant. This way, we can create enough jobs for our young people. This is what the nation needs, Onu, stressed.
The Minister was grateful to the President Muhammadu Buhari, for his support and encouragement, adding that he is convinced that the Executive Order No. 5 will achieve the purpose for which it was set up.
“I urge all Nigerians to support the full implementation of the Executive Order for the sustainable growth and development of the country.
“We must look inwards. We must aim to be self-sufficient, so as to become self-reliant. This way, we can create enough jobs for our young people. This is what the nation needs.
Onu, said it id gladdening that Buhari, signed the EO5 in 2018 for the planning and execution of projects, promotion of Nigerian content in contracts, Science, Engineering and Technology for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
He said: “I recall that in February, 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari signed the Presidential Executive Order No.5 EO5, for the Planning and Execution of Projects, Promotion of Nigerian Content in Contracts, Science, Engineering and Technology for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
“The Executive Order is a revolutionary one aimed at mandating procuring entities to give preference to Nigerian companies and firms in the award of contracts in line with the Public Procurement Act of 2007, as well as the engagement of Nigerian professionals in areas where their requisite expertise is available, among others
“I am happy with the efforts being made to ensure the adequate sensitization of different Ministries so as to get their buy-in.”
Last year, the task office in collaboration with some agencies of the Ministry organised a breakfast meeting in Lagos with Nigerian Entrepreneurs, adding that was to showcase the available research and development results ready for uptake and eventual commercialization.
“I am also happy that already the effect of the Executive Order is being felt in the country. The University of Transportation, Daura, is one of the products of the Executive Order.
“Also, as a result of the Executive Order, it became necessary to organize both the 1st and 2nd Strategy Competitiveness Workshop for various regulatory bodies in the country. This helped to strengthen the operations of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) for the good of the country.
“I am confident that the complaints/appeal procedure would address the various complaints in all the sectors of the economy.
“May I congratulate the National Coordinator of the Strategy Implementation Task Office of the Presidential Executive Order No. 5 and his team for their immense achievements.” He said.
