The House of Representatives (Reps) said on Monday, December 18, that it is prepared to chart a new course that will propel the country into a new heights in science, engineering and technological innovation.
Chairman of the House Committee on Science Engineering, one of the newly created Committees, Hon. Inuwa Garba, who spoke t the inaugural meeting of the committee that the House attached importance to a technology and engineering driven economy.
He however said the success of the Committee will be measured not just by the policies it initiated, but by the tangible results made out of them that will impact on Nigerians.
Hon Garba said: “The creation of the Committee underscores the importance the leadership of the 10th National Assembly attached to the need to recognize the era of technological and engineering-driven economy that every other sector largely depends on for science and technological growth.
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“Such dependence also provides for advancement in research and development, innovation, entrepreneurship, productivity enhancement and managing environmental issues that determine economic progress and promotion of sustainable development.
“In keeping with the Legislative Agenda of the House of Representatives which amongst others provides for: strengthening good governance, Economic development and growth, and Environmental sustainability and climate change, the Committee on Science Engineering is further charged with the responsibility of navigating the complex intersection of science and engineering, ensuring that our nation strides confidently into a future shaped by innovation and progress.
“I am aware of the weight of this responsibility and expectations therefrom. In this sector, our actions bear profound implications for the trajectory of our nation because we stand at the forefront of technological advancements and our decisions will naturally impact on the generations to come. This is a responsibility we accept with humility and dedication.
“As we embark on this auspicious journey that will see us writing our names in the sands of time, | urge you, my colleagues, to present your expertise, passion and commitment to the activities of the committee.
“Definitely, our diversity of skills and perspectives will be our strength while our working together will surely make navigation of the challenges much easier.
“To cap it all, we are tasked with the constitutional responsibility that demands diligence, accountability and a keen understanding of the landscape of science and engineering. Let us strive to leave the scene better than we found it and posterity will bequeath to us a pride of place.”
He assured that the committee saddled with the parliamentary responsibility of over-sighting the agencies, shall do well to encourage the agencies to steadily support scientific research towards economic growth of the nation.
These agencies include: Sheda Science and Technology (SHESTCO), Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency, National Centre for Technology Management, National Science Laboratory Technology Agency, and Nigeria Council for Food Science Technology.
He also said that the committee’s plans to “encourage the conduct of essential studies, discover new knowledge and develop innovative solutions to existing problems.
He stated: “In partnering with you, we shall strive to initiate supportive policies and regulations aimed at fostering the enabling environment where scientists can explore and experiment freely to proffer solutions leading to development.
“Similarly, in our budget consideration of the MDAs, we shall consider making cases for adequate budget allocations to shore up the government investments in the sector. Obviously, apart from adequately providing for aggressive revolution required in the sector, this will help to address the ugly consequences of brain drain and migration of skilled and qualified persons to other climes.
“In achieving these, the committee is well positioned to collaborate with the MDAs and stakeholders in the sector to give the desired lifeline to the sector and promote economic growth. This synergy will allow for exchange of knowledge, resources and expertise as well as fostering of innovation and development of new technologies.”
