Govt, research institutes collaboration is key — Edo Dep Gov

The Edo State government says it will leverage on eco-stability to drive its economic agenda and address its economic challenges.

The State Deputy Governor, Right Honourable Comrade Phillip Shaibu, made the declaration on behalf of Governor Godwin Obaseki, at the official launch of the Centre for Global Eco-Innovation (CGE), Nigeria at the University of Benin.

The Governor frowned at the level of degradation, which discourages industrial growth and development.  He affirmed that CGE, which is in collaboration with Lancaster University in the United Kingdom, should address both economic and ecological challenges in Africa which, according to him, lacks the science and technology to combat environment challenges.

Comrade Shaibu also declared the State government’s willingness to partner any institution in its efforts to develop the state.

In their separate presentations, Professors Kirk Sample and Paul Nigel, both resource persons from Lancaster University, United Kingdom, said the centre used high quality research to drive sustainable economic growth through new products, processes and services.  They asserted that the Centre for Global Eco-Innovation delivered high-level skills for employment and success in green economy.

The event, which held at the Senate Building of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), attracted participants from the Nigerian military and other concerned stakeholders in the ecosystem.