In its determination to promote and improve the economy of the state, Gombe State government is to prioritise investment on science, technology and innovation.
The disclosure was made by the state governor, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya while making a remark at the official opening ceremony of the 2020 Exposition on Science, Technology, Innovation, Agriculture and Mineral Resources in Gombe held on Monday.
Inuwa Yahaya described the event as a collective resolve by the government, people of the state and other stakeholders to interact in showcasing human and natural resources with a view to harnessing them for the socio-economic development of the state.
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He also noted that the state was unable to realise 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, low level of investment on science, technology and innovation as well as lack of uptake of research results among others.
The Governor, however, assured that the present administration is committed to achieving those feats within the shortest possible time just as he 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 organised private sector to explore ways of partnering with tertiary institutions and government MDAs in commercialising the viable products for the benefit of the society”.
He added that “when the Dadinkowa hydropower 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 an industrial park to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate the economy”.
Earlier in her remarks, the State Commissioner of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Aishatu Umar Maigari said the annual exposition event serves as an avenue for investors, researchers, innovators and producers to come together with a view to commercialising 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 the award presentation.
Highlights of the occasion were an exhibition of some ICT innovation products by some researchers and young talents currently receiving training and support at the state’s Technology Incubation Centre as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Governor.
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