Why Nigeria must invest in technology – Pantami

The Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami, has underscored the need for the country to invest in technology to drive development.

He then called on the government and learning institutions to pay more attention to science and technology as the key to move the economy.

Speaking virtually at the 1st Faculty of Science International Conference, organised by the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna, the minister said technology had the capacity to address the issue of unemployment being faced in the country.

“Technology remains the path to sustainable development. It is the way to achieve digital transformation of people in the society. Relevant technology is the most important tool to bring many out of poverty in Nigeria because it holds the key to sustainable development because it has the potential to fully transform our society.”

He stressed that the application of basic science and technology can lead to effective solutions adding, “Such solutions will enhance the security challenges and restore peace and security for the attainment of sustainable development of Nigeria.”

He said innovative capabilities, through science and technology, are critical towards ensuring food sufficiency and boast broader food systems while driving economic and sustainable development.

Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who was represented by the permanent secretary, Kaduna State Ministry of Business Innovation and Technology, Dr Yusuf Saleh, said the state government had put modalities on ground to improve relevant science and technology education in the state, adding that at basic education, they had employed over 24,000 teachers at primary school level.