2023: FG to develop technology for conduct of elections —Minister

THE Federal Government is to develop appropriate technologies for deployment during conduct of future elections, especially from  the 2023 general election.

This, according to the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, who spoke in Abuja, would ensure transparent elections and avoid outbreak of violence.

Onu said he was determined to improve upon his past performance and promised to ensure the passing into law and  implementation of the revolutionary Executive Order 5, which is to promote local content and give preference to Nigerian scientists, contractors and innovators.

He assured of food security for Nigerians by enabling healthy competition among researchers, scientists and innovators that would develop technologies to propel the process.

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“Our research will aim at increasing yield and disease resistance in seeds and seedlings, developing appropriate machines and equipment to assist planting, harvesting, storage and processing of crops. This will help us to fight hunger and make food available in our homes,” he said.

He enjoined Nigerians to be involved in innovation, as science and technology is key to solving societal challenges.

“The time has come for all of us, man and woman, boy and girl, rich or poor, educated or illiterate, to pursue his/her passion that can lead to innovative ideas or new ways of doing things in order to solve our various problems,” he added.

Onu also reiterated his commitment to intensifying efforts in research, development and use of clean and renewable energy, which he said is in line with President Buhari’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

He added, “We will take advantage of our geographical location near the equator to explore solar energy. We will also work to harness the hydropower potential as well as wind energy.”

He said through commercialisation of research results as championed by the ministry, the nation could create solution to the issue of joblessness.

He said, “I intend to encourage Nigerians to develop greater interest in venture Capital, through the participation of the private sector in the commercialisation of research findings.”

He also said that the ministry would work with relevant government agencies such as the ministries of Power and Works and Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) to help provide constant electricity in homes, schools, markets and  factories.