By Hillary Asemota
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, on assumption of office during the week said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assigned the Ministry portfolio to him because of the overarching urgency to launch Nigeria into a knowledge-based new world economy.
This is coming even as he said that history has shown that no nation can progress without a foundation rooted in knowledge, Science Technology and Innovation.
Briefing management staff and members of the media at the Ministry Headquarters, he said: “I’m therefore happy to be here with you to achieve these noble goals and objectives of transforming the fortunes of this great country through critical activities of the Ministry and its affiliated agencies.
”As the supervising Minister, I’m aware of few existing policies and strategic documents of the Ministry, in particular the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy.”
On his expectation, he added that he would expect strong collaboration between the Ministry and its 17 agencies is vital, adding that it is imperative to work together as a team for shared objectives through effective communication.
The Minister, reiterated that he is in the Ministry, to upscale innovation and not merely follow routine, adding that: “Our swift and inventive actions will define us as a Ministry driven by innovation.
“Let us be result-oriented, proactive and enthusiastic. Our leadership in innovation will contribute to the prosperity of our great nation.”
In a brief remark, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. James Sule, assured that the Minister will bring his experience to bear in the Ministry.
Sule, said: “The Minister is a man of honour as we are lucky to have a de-tribalised Nigerian to be assigned to take the mantle of leadership in this Ministry in this regard and on behalf of the Ministry and the 17 agencies I sincerely welcome the Minister on assumption of duty.
“He is a man of competence and has passion for innovation and development. It is on this note that I charge all the staff of the Ministry to be highly professional and highly functional. We should be customer-oriented as well as well as result-oriented.”
I congratulate the Minister on this well-deserved appointment and with his background as a politician and a businessman I have no doubt that he will bring his enormous wealth of experience into the Ministry.
The Permanent Secretary, while still commending the Minister, added: “You are all aware that the ministry is strategic with capability to fast-tracking development using STI to enhance the pace of socio-economic development.
