By Justina Auta
Stakeholders have called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint innovative, science-driven attachés at Nigerian embassies to promote technology transfer and commercialisation, driving economic development.
This appeal was made on Thursday at a press briefing by Research for Impact, Knowledge Economy and Sustainable Development (RIKE-SD), a not-for-profit Pan African organisation, commemorating its one-year anniversary in Abuja.
Dr Mustapha Popola, Executive Director of RIKE-SD, emphasised the need for knowledge attachés to promote technology advancement and economic growth.
He recommended appointing attachés with expertise in science, technology, and innovation to facilitate technology transfer and commercialisation.
He added that the organisation launched several initiatives, including Academia-Industry Mobility, Skillnovate-UpSkiling, and Reskilling Innovation, to facilitate inclusive growth and connect research and innovation to communities.
“These have all made significant contributions to bridging skill gaps, empowering researchers, and facilitating innovation in Nigeria and Africa.
“The success achieved in the past year is just the beginning, as these initiatives continue to drive innovation, collaboration, and progress in research commercialisation.
“Together, they are transforming the skill space, empowering individuals, and unlocking opportunities for sustainable growth and development in the knowledge economy,” he said.
Prof. Sulaiman Bogoro, Board Chairman on Finance, RIKE-SD, stressed the need for funding to support innovative ideas and research.
Air Vice Marshall (AVM) Jomo Osohar (RTD), a board member, highlighted the importance of collaboration between researchers and stakeholders to drive impactful research.
Dr Patrick Oghuma, Special Adviser to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, emphasised the need for market-driven research.
On his part, Mr Ayoade Aderoye, Senior Agriculture Economist, USAID, reiterated their commitment to supporting impactful research.(NAN)