By Dwelleth Morountodun
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, on Thursday stressed the need for African nations to embrace Science Technology and Innovation (STI) so as to add value to their abundant raw natural resources.
This according him will make African nations achieve wholesome rapid socio-economic development.
Onu therefore stressed the need for socio-economic self-reliance as this will assist in reducing imports and thereby producing goods and services needed by Africans.
The Minister made the disclosure when delegates from African Union Scientific Technical and Research commission (AU-STRC) led by Prof. Mohammed Belhocine, paid him a courtesy in his office in Abuja.
The difference between developed and developing countries, the Minister said, is in terms and degree of investment in STI.
He advised Africans to use their abundant natural resources, commercialize and export them to other Countries.
He reiterated that with more focus on STI, it will help African Countries create Jobs, and reduce poverty to its barest minimum.
Onu, promised the delegation that the Ministry through one of its agencies; National Space Research Development Agency (NASRDA) will partner with the commission to support the Pan-African university, based in Ibadan.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation for the African Union Scientific Technical and Research commission (AU-STRC), Prof. Mohammed Belhocine said the purpose of his visit was to seek the collaboration and partnership of the Ministry.
He further said that the support of the Nigerian government is needed to facilitate one of the institutes of the Pan-African University based in Ibadan, adding that the Ministry should help with the provision of vital equipment needed for the institute.
