The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology (FMIST), Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, commends the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) for the very important job they are doing in incubating research and development projects across the nation. The Minister made a facility visit to the state office of the NBTI in Agege, Lagos State.
According to the Minister, “Under the renewed hope agenda of our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as ministers, we are eager to move the nation forward in line with the renewed hope agenda.” The minister applauded the leadership of the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) for being the birthplace of the emancipation of thousands of industrialists over the years and assured that the ministry will support the agency to continue to do more for the nation. He further explained that the R&D Fund aimed to support experts and individuals excelling in technology to advance their research, a crucial element for development.
“I just visited the Federal Institute of Industrial Research in Oshodi, Lagos, and now the Technology Incubation Centre in Agege. I am observing a significant incubation of industrialists in this space. “They have trained over 1,000 individuals—bringing them in, providing training, incubating them, and then facilitating their transition to their respective businesses. This process has resulted in the emergence of numerous millionaires,” he said. “With a president from the private sector, there is a serious commitment to generating power, even leveraging solar energy. Just last week, during a visit to the Abuja Technology Village with the FCT minister, we discussed transforming it into a global technology city comparable to Silicon Valley,” he added. This was said after a tour of the facility of the NBTI and the visitation of the exhibition stand of technology incubatees and entrepreneurs who showcased and displayed their respective R&D results to the Minister and his entourage.
Chief Uche Nnaji further added that “more has to be done in every quarter and jobs have to be created. “Before, we didn’t have a research and development fund, but we are on the verge of creating one where people who have excelled in innovation and technology can push their hands and take funds to develop what they have researched.”
Dr. Mrs. Patricia Chukwu, the Director-General of the NBTI, thanked the Honourable Minister and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology for their support in her address. Dr. Mrs. Patricia said, “Technology is the key to unlocking solutions to some of the most pressing issues in the country, and she urged the ministry to fully maximize the potential embedded in the agencies. Technology plays a pivotal role in addressing pressing issues such as climate change and health concerns and enhancing digital connectivity. It is undeniable that in the swiftly changing landscape of today’s world, progress heavily relies on technological advancements.” she added
Dr. Patricia Chukwu said the Technology Incubation Centre in Lagos stood as a testament to the commitment to nurturing and empowering bright minds in society. “Whether in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, biotechnology, or blockchain, the potential is boundless. Yet, to actualize these opportunities fully, we must adopt a culture that champions innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship,” she emphasized
