Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe state has assured of his administration’s determination to improve the economy of the state through prioritizing investment on science, technology, and innovation.
In a statement sent to DAILY NIGERIAN by the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Ismaila Uba-Maisilli, the governor made the remark at the official opening ceremony of the 2020 Exposition on Science, Technology, Innovation, Agriculture and Mineral Resources in Gombe on Monday.
He lamented that the state could not transform its potentials in terms of science, technology and innovation into projects and programmes in the past due to weak linkages between research institutions and industries.
According to him, other factors include a low level of investment in science, technology, and innovation as well as a lack of uptake of research results among others.
He, however, assured that the present administration is committed to achieving those feats within the shortest possible time.
Governor Yahaya also called for synergy among researchers, inventors, industries and tertiary institutions to enhance effective domestication of the national science, technology and innovation road map, 2030.
He said: “I also wish to call on the organized private sector to explore ways of partnering with tertiary institutions and government MDAs in commercializing the viable products for the benefit of the society.
“When the Dadinkowa hydro power plant is commissioned, my government will ensure establishing a conducive atmosphere for science, technology and innovation operational activities, in addition to our resolve to set up industrial park to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate the economy,” the governor noted.
Earlier in her remarks, the State Commissioner of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Aishatu Maigari said the annual exposition event serves as an avenue for investors, researchers, innovators and producers to come together with a view to commercializing the research results, products as well as value additions on various raw materials for improved revenue generation.
The commissioner presented to the governor, the 774 young Nigerian scientists presidential award winners to the state governor for award presentation.
Highlights of the occasion was exhibition of some ICT innovation products by some researchers and young talents currently receiving training and support at the state’s Technology Incubation Centre.
