Science & Tech - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Philip Daniel Yatai
May, Fri, 2025

Research coy advocates data-driven solutions for grass-root governance

217 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

A research and advisory company, Veriv Africa, is advocating for data-driven solutions to address governance and reforms across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the country.

Ms Omotayo Faro, Managing Director of the company said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

Faro said that local governance reforms had become necessary following the 2024 Supreme Court judgment that upheld local government autonomy in the country.

She said that the company had begun research on local governance, strengthening initiatives in collaboration with Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), starting with Kaduna State.

“Through this NYFF-supported initiative, Veriv Africa aims to equip local governments and civil society with data to strengthen service delivery, empower youth and communities to hold decision-makers accountable.

“This will demonstrate a scalable model for governance reform across the 774 LGAs.

“Improving governance begins at the grassroots and the data-driven solutions will put communities at the centre of development,” she said.

She said that the project focused on five LGAs in9 Kaduna state, which include Chikun, Igabi, Kaduna North, Kaduna South and Zaria.

She said that the project assessed the gaps in governance such as agriculture, healthcare, education, vocational services as well as Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

“It offers vital, evidence-based insights into the realities of service delivery and development at the local level.

“The insights can help to prepare Kaduna and other Nigerian states for a more accountable, transparent and community-driven future.

“The assessment revealed that the education sector in Kaduna State suffers from chronic underfunding, with more than 90 per cent of respondents reporting inadequate learning materials.

“In the healthcare sector, in spite of the physical presence of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), service delivery is hampered by inadequate infrastructure and staffing.

“More than 59 per cent of respondents reported the absence of doctors or nurses in their local PHCs, raising serious concerns about access to quality care,” she said.

She further said that the assessment showed that the agricultural practices in the state had been constrained by insecurity, poor access to inputs, inadequate extension services and weak market systems.

According to her, farmers continue to face barriers, with many citing government interventions as inaccessible or ineffective.

“In WASH, residents of Kaduna LGAs face widespread water shortages and poor sanitation, while over 93 per cent of respondents experience water scarcity in the previous three months.

“Another challenge is poor toilet facilities, thereby contributing to poor public health outcomes,” Faro said.

She urged policymakers, development partners and civil society actors to collaborate on scalable reforms across LGAs and also get the details of the report on www.verivafrica.com.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Veriv Africa is a research and advisory company dedicated to leveraging data, technology and domain expertise to transform data into actionable intelligence. (NAN)

Edited by Fatima Sule Abdullahi/Kadiri Abdulrahman

FG calls for acceleration of broadband in underserved regions

Magdalene Ukuedojor
May, Thu, 2025

Science & Tech

FG calls for acceleration of broadband in underserved regions

262 total views today

By Jessica Dogo

The Federal Government has called for the acceleration of broadband, fibre-optic networks and rural connectivity programmes in underserved regions of the country.

The Director-General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, made the call in his keynote speech at the 2025 ITGOV Conference, on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Inuwa spoke on the theme: “Advancing Government Operations Through Digital Transformation”.

The one-day annual conference was organised by Tranter IT and ManageEngine.

The D-G, who was represented by his Technical Assistant, Dr Femi Adeluyi, said that the world was witnessing a digital revolution that was redefining the way that governments function.

He said that the Nigerian government had embarked on a journey to leverage digital transformation to drive development and growth.

“Governments are waking up to a powerful realisation that digital transformation is not a luxury but a necessity.

“According to a 2023 report by the United Nations e-government Survey, over 70 per cent of countries globally have improved their digital government development index, with leading examples from Estonia, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates.

“These governments are not just digitising services, they are transforming operations.

“They are building citizen-centric platforms, leveraging data for better policy decisions and ensuring that services are inclusive, accessible, and resilient,” he said.

He said that the ministry and NITDA were driving reforms aligned with the president’s vision.

He said that the Digital Transformation Working Group (DTWG) had worked with MDAs across sectors to develop and implement its plans, focused on automation, service delivery, cloud adoption, and data-driven governance.

Inuwa said that digital transformation was not just about technology but rethinking and building a government that listens, responds and evolves with its citizens.

“Nigeria has the potential to become a model for Africa,” he said.

Dr Dasuki Arabi, Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), urged the federal and state governments to continue moving in lockstep-aligning priorities.

Arabi, represented by Sulola Johnson, Director of Strategy Innovation Research, BPRS, said that governments should keep sharing data and coordinating systems to deliver seamless services to Nigerians, regardless of geography.

He said that BPRS was committed to training 500,000 public servants in digital literacy and emerging technologies, equipping them to manage and sustain these technologies for long-term impact.

“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, IT automation has become not just a tool, but a strategic imperative for modern governance.

“From eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks to improving service delivery and accountability, automation is at the very heart of the transformation journey we must all embark upon.

“Digital tools alone can not drive transformation. We must invest in people, the true enablers of innovation.

“We urge all relevant state and federal institutions to collaborate with us on this ambitious but necessary goal,” Arabi said.

Earlier, Melanie Ayoola, Executive Director of the Tranter Group of Companies, highlighted the importance of digital solutions in improving government operations.

Ayoola said that ManageEngine, a global IT automation suite of solutions, had been adopted by 50 per cent of the largest enterprise companies in Nigeria.

She said that the solution would help manage tickets, events and endpoints, boosting productivity and reducing downtime.

She said that in the government space, ManageEngine could help to manage thousands of workers, ensuring maximum productivity and efficient service delivery.

“This will boost productivity by responding quickly to any issues or challenges that may come up to prevent an employee from working or having maximum productivity.

“So in a government space where you have thousands of workers, 12,000, 15,000 and more, you can imagine having a percentage of those employees not working at full capacity because their tool is down.

“If you have little issues on 30 per cent of your workforce, you have people working at 50 per cent capacity, and your output starts to decline as an organisation.

“Not only will you have low productivity if you do not utilise some of these IT automation solutions, but you can affect the services to the public,” she said.

In his remarks, Stranivasan Rajasekar, Regional head, West Africa, ManageEngine, said that the solution offered comprehensive solutions for public and private sector organisations of all sizes.

Rajasekar said that it would empower such organisations to secure, simplify and optimise their IT infrastructure.

“The company offers a wide range of solutions, including Identity and Access Management, Enterprise Service Management, Endpoint Management and Security, IT Operations Management, Security Information and Event Management.

“It also offers advanced IT Analytics, Low-code App Development, Cloud Solutions for Enterprise IT, Privileged Access Management, and Remote Work Management,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

FG targets 24-hour internet, power supply to special institutions

Philip Daniel Yatai
May, Thu, 2025

Science & Tech

FG targets 24-hour internet, power supply to special institutions

221 total views today

By Jessica Dogo

The Federal Government has inaugurated fibre-to-home to hostels at the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) as part of plans to ensure 24- hour internet supply to special institutions nationwide before the end of 2026.

The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, said at an event in Abuja that the Federal Government was determined to provide the enabling environment for teaching and learning to thrive.

Alausa said that UniAbuja was a special institution, now enjoying 24-hour internet supply, adding that other special institutions would enjoy the same before the end of 2026.

“President Bola Tinubu is energising institutions. We have special institutions in the country today enjoying 24-hour electricity via the presidential renewable mini-grid project, the solarisation project.

“University of Abuja is one of the beneficiaries. You have a 3.3 megahertz mini-grid here and everybody can attest to it now that you have 24-hour electricity supply.

“The president is not stopping there. Before the end of next year, literally all the special institutions will have mini-grid. You will all enjoy 24-hour electricity supply,” he said.

It is expected that the regular power supply would support the internet facility.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani said that UniAbuja was the first of the seven universities in the first phase of the pilot scheme.

Tijani said that by the end of July the seven institutions would have been connected.

“This initiative we are launching here today is the first of the seven in a pilot scheme, and by the end of July we would have connected the seven universities.

“Galaxy Backbone has the infrastructure in place already; all we are doing is to take the fibre to hostels.

“We have taught it to be important that Nigerian university students cannot continue to learn without access to meaningful connectivity.

“When we give you this access that not only are you going to be better in what you are learning, but you are actually going to create the future that our president is asking that we create as a nation,” he said.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Patricia Lar, in her welcome address, lauded the project, adding that it will benefit the school community.

“It is a special initiative that is going to create opportunities for students of all economic status to access data to be able to use for knowledge and education and to feed their creativity with ease.

“We are grateful for deploying fibre to our hostels. This also works with the solar power backup that has been installed in our campus.

The President, Medical Students Association of the institution, Faith David, who spoke on behalf of the students expressed delight with what the government had done by connecting their hostels to fibre for Internet access.

“We appreciate both ministers for this initiative, we are enjoying 24 hour power and now our hostels have been connected to the internet to make learning easier for us,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

FG to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage

Folashade Adeniran
May, Thu, 2025

Science & Tech

FG to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage

218 total views today

By Jessica Dogo

The Federal Government says it plans to invest in 7,000 towers to expand network coverage to underserved communities, with a focus to bridge digital divide and promote inclusive development in the country.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Dr Bosun Tijani, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja when he unveiled a pilot project in Ibwa 2 community, situated at Gwagwalada, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Tijani hinted that President Bola Tinubu had directed that the ministry should invest 7,000 in giving Nigerians access to network.

He noted that there were about 20 million rural dwellers who do not have access to benefit from such facilities.

“Nigeria has decided to invest 7,000 of these equipment in healthcare.

“There are about 20 million people who cannot benefit from what we that live in the city or those who are nearer to the city are currently enjoying.

“Out of that 20 million people over 80 per cent of them are from the northern part of Nigeria.

“This is why Mr President has demanded that we must put money into ensuring that this opportunity is not only available to those in the urban area but every part of the north must be covered with this equipment.

“So that we can give this opportunity to our people regardless of where they find themselves.”

He said that the project, in collaboration with Globacom Nigeria and Huawei Technologies Nigeria, would provide different digital services to over 12,000 residents of the community, and those within its environs.

He explained that the 7,000 digital hospitals and schools would provide services for 80 per cent of the 20 million unserved who were from northern states.

The minister in test running the digital facilities had online conversations with a medical doctor in Abuja and a teacher in Lagos.

He assured that the 7,000 projects would be delivered by the end of the year.

According to him, 125 smart phones had been provided to the community through the village Head to be used for services provided by the facility with free WiFi.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Huawei Technologies Nigeria, Terrens Wu expressed delight over the collaboration, saying that it would lead to rural transformation and economic empowerment of rural dwellers.

Mr Wu was optimistic that the project would deepen financial inclusion and boost economic activities.

He also expressed the commitment of Huawei to rural and urban transformation in Nigeria.

“Huawei has the technology to shape the ways rural areas are carried along in the plan for digital transformation and literacy in the country,” he said.

The Manager Globacom Nigeria Northern Region, Mr Kassim Kaka emphasised the company’s commitment to ventures that would improve digital literacy and deepen inclusion in the country.

The Village Head of Ibwa 2 Community, Abubakar Bamaiyi, appreciated the government for the projects, saying in the past, government officials would visit the community and make promises, but nothing would follow.

“In the past government officials would come and make promises but they end up doing nothing. But this time around you people came and within this short period you have delivered.

“Our children can even learn from their beds. And we can access medical care through this digital hospital.

“The project has revived the peoples confidence in the present administration, and the villagers will take advantage of the projects to improve their living standards and businesses,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Agency unveils indigenous medicine products, presents malaria kits to military

Folashade Adeniran
May, Wed, 2025

Science & Tech

Agency unveils indigenous medicine products, presents malaria kits to military

302 total views today

By Stellamaris Ashinze

The Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) on Tuesday unveiled two natural medicine products and presented malaria prevention kits to military and paramilitary agencies.

The Director-General of NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje, made the presentation in Lagos to mark the two years anniversary of his administration.

In his address, Emeje said that NNMDA had instituted a nationwide initiative to harness the country’s rich biodiversity in the development of natural medicine.

Emeje said that in 2024, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, unveiled four products, four tests, solar and solar-inducing foundations of the agency.

He said that the other things that were unveiled included products for sickle cell because Nigeria was number one when it came to sickle cell.

He also introduced a product for diabetes, immune boosting and anti-aging.

“So, as I stand before you on our second year anniversary, we have launched three new products.

“We shall not be unveiling them today because none of us is confident to launch them. We want Mr President to launch our products.

“So, what are those products? I will mention a few just to give an idea. We have Peptic oxide, one of the biggest pollutants we have in Africa.

‘”We have a natural product for Hepatitis B ready in our lab. It is also one of the biggest pollutants that we have in Africa”.

According to him, NNMDA has applied nanotechnology to develop some products, of which one of them is diarrhea, a child killer disease.

Emeje said that the agency used nanotechnology to develop an antidiarrheal product that won an award when its scientists went on a national scientific conference to make their presentation.

The director-general said that a lot of its programmes had gone through scientific evolution, proven in terms of safety, in terms of efficacy, and in terms of stability.

‘’Now, this agency is not new. This agency has existed since 1997. It is a turnabout agency in terms of productivity and in terms of access.

He said that the agency had identified 9,000 electoral wards across the country’s 774 local governments, where it would engage traditional medical practitioners and communities to document and develop natural medicine products.

Emeje emphasised the need for the private sector to partner with the agency to drive research and development in the country.

He noted that Nigeria’s economic development depended on its ability to harness its natural resources and develop its own solutions to its problems.

The d-g also called on Nigerians to take pride in their cultural heritage and traditional medicine.

According to him, the agency is working to promote the country’s natural medicine industry while ensuring that products meet international standards.

He announced that the agency developed a national database of traditional medical practitioners and products, which would facilitate access to these services and products across the country.

He expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for its support and the media for its role in promoting the agency’s work.

Emeje said that the agency would continue to work toward improving the lives of Nigerians through natural medicine development.

In a goodwill message, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Moshood Jimoh, congratulated the d-g on his second year anniversary.

Jimoh, who was represented by Dr Bose Salami, ACP, said that NNMDA’s d-g had shown dedication to promoting and developing natural medicine which had significantly impacted public health.

“Your research, community engagement, and advocacy have helped lay the foundation for a healthier and more self-reliant nation.

“On this milestone, I commend your achievements and encourage you to continue your vital work with commitment and integrity.

“May this anniversary mark the beginning of even greater accomplishments. God bless NNMDA, and God bless Nigeria.”

Also, Col. Samson Idowu, Commander, 81 Division Medical Services and Hospital, was represented by Maj.-Gen F.U. Mijinyawa.

Mijinyawa said: “Your passion is evident, and I must say, it’s inspiring. It takes visionary leadership to position an agency like this for long-term impact’’.

“Over the next few years, it is believed that all will see the full potential of this agency.

“As a public health physician and a representative of the Nigerian Army’s 81 Division, I commend your commitment.

“Our military medical corps will continue to collaborate and support your goals where necessary’’.

He commended the way NNMDA had integrated traditional knowledge into scientific research,

He said that some of the military psychiatrists had observed the calming effects of traditional remedies, and it was good to see the area receiving serious attention and validation.

Mijinyawa, however, urged NNMDA to keep pushing boundaries and raising awareness.

“You are helping redefine the healthcare narrative in Nigeria, and we stand with you.”

In his remarks, the representative of the Comptroller of Immigration Service, B.A. Lawson, S.I. Bikini-Rossi, said it was encouraging that the agency had identified national health challenges and was proactively working on solutions.

According to him, malaria, for instance, is often taken for granted in our society and it’s seriousness overlooked until someone close to one is severely affected.

“What you are doing here, treating malaria not just as a medical issue but as a national concern, is praiseworthy.

“I encourage you to expand your scope to include other critical health areas such as maternal mortality, neonatal care, HIV, and more.

“Our people are suffering quietly, and they need solutions rooted in both science and cultural relevance.

“Personally, I recently lost a child due to a pregnancy-related complication, and it opened my eyes to how much work still needs to be done in our healthcare system.

In his welcome address, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Mr Samuel Bibinu, a Pharmacist, said that Emeje has done well in his two years as NNMDA’s D-G.

“It is believed that this is one of the best in Africa and the world, the global health platform is awaiting for Nigeria to emerge.

“It is in the light of this, that we all gathered here today to celebrate the achievement in these two years of giant stride,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the highlight of the event was the distribution of free Malaria Kit to visitors. (NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Nnaji delivering tangible innovation, making landmark achievements—Ministry

Magdalene Ukuedojor
May, Tue, 2025

Science & Tech

Nnaji delivering tangible innovation, making landmark achievements—Ministry

220 total views today

By Kingsley Okoye

The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has refuted a recent media report which labelled the Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji, as a ‘sleeping minister’.

The ministry, in a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser, Administration to the Minister, Dr Robert Ngwu, on Tuesday in Abuja, said the report was a smear campaign by detractors.

He said that the characterisation, authored by a detractor under the headline ‘Honest Assessment of Tinubu’s Ministers’, was pure falsehood and mudslinging.

“It is not only inaccurate but a gross misrepresentation of one of the most productive ministries in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“It is especially disconcerting that such claims are being pushed by a publication frequently accused of partisan bias and alignment with some political interests in Enugu State.

“The attempt to tarnish the name of Nnaji—a nationally recognised technocrat—appears politically motivated and factually baseless.’’

Ngwu listed some landmark achievements under Nnaji’s leadership as:

“Securing a 7.9 billion euros foreign direct investment for ‘Project Green,’ Africa’s largest green methanol and hydrogen complex; spearheading the establishment of Africa’s first insulin manufacturing facility in Nigeria.

“Unveiling of Nigeria’s first AI-powered hospital monitoring system and enabling the first Chinese-backed smart hospital; training no fewer than 25,000 Nigerians annually through Project NOVA.

“Deploying the Sustainable Energy Access Programme (SEAP) across 774 LGAs with hybrid energy and clean cooking solutions.

“Co-leading major Commonwealth initiatives in Artificial Intelligence, climate-smart agriculture, and indigenous resilience; driving the approval of four new satellites, strengthening national security, agriculture, and broadband infrastructure.”

He also listed the advancing of biotechnology, local manufacturing, and research commercialisation through Projects Development Institute (PRODA), National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), National Biotechnology Development Agency (NBRDA), National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), among others.

Ngwu highlighted the implementation of the Renewed Hope Solarisation Project–deployment of 2MW solar hybrid systems across 37 federal universities and 37 teaching hospitals nationwide.

According to him, the project enhances healthcare delivery and academic performance by providing reliable and eco-friendly electricity.

“Others are the Patent and Promotion of Clean Cooking Innovation-development of a patented hexagonal domestic charcoal stove for improved thermal efficiency, supporting household energy cost reduction, health improvement, and sustainable cooking practices.

“Unveiling of National Energy Policy (NEP) and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP): Providing a unified policy framework for sustainable energy development and converting strategy into actionable projects across the energy sector.

“Establishment of 10MW Solar PV Module Production Assembly Plant at Enugu Research Centre which localises solar PV production, boosts renewable energy access and contributes to GDP growth.

“Development of a Pilot Integrated Modular Refinery at Bauchi Research Centre: Supports local production of refined petroleum products and reduces import dependency.

“Unveiling of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS): In partnership with UNEP and SON, established efficiency benchmarks for air conditioners to support climate targets.

“Establishment of Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi: Expanding human capacity in renewable energy technologies and resource management.’’

The senior special adviser also listed the AGORA Project with UNDP and UNEP, the Biomass Cookstoves Initiative at UNN Energy Centre, 10-Year Strategic Raw Materials Roadmap with AfDB.

Ngwu stressed the legislative push for 30 per cent Value Addition Bill: Bill to mandate at least 30 per cent local processing of raw materials before export– awaiting National Assembly passage.

“More so, the Development of Automated Leather Glazing Machine: Boosting Nigeria’s leather processing capacity through indigenous innovation and mechanisation.

“Onion Powder Processing Plant in Sokoto: Established a scalable, modern facility to meet national onion powder demand, in partnership with industry and development banks.

“Development of Local POP (Plaster of Paris): Commissioning of pilot plant using Nigeria’s gypsum resources to reduce import dependency in construction and healthcare.

“Local Soap Noodles Production Plant: Reducing importation and supporting Nigeria’s soap manufacturing industry by tapping into local palm oil resources.

“Artemisinin Extraction Plant: Developed Nigeria’s first plant for producing the API used in anti-malarial drugs from domesticated Artemisia annua; field-tested and approved.

“Presidential and council approvals for NigeriaSat-3, 4, 5 and NigeriaSAR-1: Marking Nigeria’s most ambitious satellite programme yet for revenue monitoring, agriculture, and security.’’

Ngwu said that to dismiss the accomplishments as ‘underwhelming’ was not only dishonest but insulting to the many Nigerians who were benefiting from these forward-thinking policies and programmes.

He urged newsmen and the public to rely on verifiable data and not politically tainted assessments.

“Nnaji remains committed to delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda of Tinubu, and driving innovation-led economic growth, job creation, digital transformation, and sustainable development across Nigeria.

“We encourage the media to engage in responsible journalism that informs and unites, rather than misleads and divides,’’ he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Enugu govt celebrates 2 years of tech transformation, innovation

Magdalene Ukuedojor
May, Tue, 2025

Science & Tech

Enugu govt celebrates 2 years of tech transformation, innovation

258 total views today

By Stanley Nwanosike

The Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, says Gov. Peter Mbah has advanced digitalisation, innovation, and tech-driven policies within two years.

Ezeh revealed this to journalists in Enugu while outlining Mbah’s achievements in Innovation, Science and Technology over two years of governance.

He said the governor not only believes in innovation’s potential but has actively supported its growth and application across critical sectors of the state’s socioeconomic landscape.

According to him, the ministry introduced digital infrastructure and e-governance to promote digital literacy, speed, transparency and efficiency within all government ministries, departments, and agencies.

“Governor Mbah ensured full implementation of digital infrastructure, retraining staff, eliminating paperwork, improving data management, enabling online services, and boosting citizen-government engagement,” the commissioner stated.

He added that Geographic Information System (GIS) was introduced to the Ministry of Lands to streamline land administration, prevent encroachment, and promote sustainable development goals.

The ministry also partnered with PRODA to produce multi-biomass briquette cooking stoves, addressing current energy demands and improving the socioeconomic energy situation in the state.

In 2024, the state invested in youth skilling and tech innovation, nurturing an ecosystem of enterprise, leadership and inclusive economic growth for future generations.

Ezeh said grassroots healthcare innovations were encouraged by regulating traditional medicine, promoting research into herbs and roots, and protecting public health through ethical guidelines.

“This promotes collaboration between traditional healers and modern medical professionals, fostering mutual respect and safer practices,” the commissioner added.

In its second year, the government established Enugu Smart Tech Ltd to drive future-focused tech innovation in collaboration with e-School Africa for 260 Smart Schools.

“This initiative will transform education, equipping Smart Schools in all 260 wards with advanced tech tools for digital learning across urban and rural areas.

“Smart Schools aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to quality education using cutting-edge technology and sustainable digital learning strategies,” he explained.

The commissioner highlighted how the ministry improved traditional medicine through research, trade fairs, and certifications to validate and formalise indigenous healing practices.

“The Traditional Medicine Practitioners’ Trade Fair was a landmark event, bringing together healers, researchers, and policymakers to elevate local knowledge and innovation,” Ezeh said.

He outlined the fair’s impact, including increased credibility, economic empowerment, and catalysing research — all underlining the ministry’s vision to uplift, not discard traditional knowledge.

Ezeh added that the Coal Briquette Stove project addressed the energy crisis, producing an efficient, low-cost alternative built using local engineering and materials.

The stove uses compressed coal dust from Enugu, offering a cleaner, safer substitute for firewood and reducing indoor pollution and deforestation.

According to Ezeh, environmental benefits, affordability, and industrial use make the stove attractive to small manufacturers and rural households, driving productivity and lowering costs.

He added that the coal stove symbolises Enugu’s move toward local, sustainable innovations, positioning the state as a green tech leader in the West African region.

“The recent Enugu Tech Festival embodied Governor Mbah’s innovation vision and has become a major platform for inspiring youths and attracting investment.

“Over 15,000 people attended, including tech entrepreneurs, researchers, developers, and investors—creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and partnerships,” he said.

The event featured hackathons, pitches, and innovation labs, yielding real outcomes like start-up launches, policy engagement, and tech education boosts.

Ezeh noted that the festival’s success showed the government’s strength in uniting stakeholders and promoting community-driven innovation from the grassroots.

“From traditional medicine to sustainable tech, the governor’s leadership demonstrates a new path for regional development rooted in local capacity and innovation.

“Not dependent on federal aid but driven by ideas. Despite challenges in funding and rural access, Enugu’s innovation journey is clearly on course.

“The foundation is strong, and the future is being shaped with deliberate intent. Innovation is being invented right here in Enugu State.

“Under Mbah’s leadership, Enugu is now a living lab for disruptive change — bridging tradition and technology through inclusive public engagement,” Ezeh said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG to explore biotech innovations to transform agric sector

Ismail Abdulaziz
May, Tue, 2025

Science & Tech

FG to explore biotech innovations to transform agric sector

283 total views today

By Sylvester Thompson

The Federal Government said on Monday in Abuja that it would take steps to build public trust in biotech innovations to grow the nation’s agriculture sector.

Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director-General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), said this at a public forum it hosted in collaboration with African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).

The forum had as its theme: “Advancing Agricultural Biotechnology for Food Security and Economic Growth in Nigeria.’’

Mustapha was represented at the event by Dr Rose Gidado, Director, Agricultural Biotechnology Department, NBRDA.

He said the Federal Government was conscious of the transformative potential of agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria.

“Biotech innovations hold promise for tackling agricultural challenges such as pandemics, offering solutions, for a better future.

“Through the harnessing of science and technology, we can develop resilient crop varieties, improve pest and combat disease resistance in crops.

“We can also enhance nutritional content, while ensuring that our agricultural practices are sustainable and environmentally friendly,’’ he said.

Dr Emmanuel Okogbenin, Director, Product Development and Commercialisation, AATF, said agricultural biotechnology, when responsibly developed and effectively adopted, offered a powerful set of tools that could help to address food insecurity.

“Nigeria and Kenya, along with Ghana, stand out as leaders on the continent having made significant progress in commercialising biotech crops such as Bt Cotton, Bt Maize and PBR Cowpea.

“These innovations are not just scientific milestones, they represent real opportunities to transform lives, improve farmer livelihoods, and enhance national food systems,’’ Okogbenin said.

The AATF Director, who was represented by Yarama Ndirpaya, AATF Tela Programme Manager/Out-Grower Strategy Lead in Nigeria, said it was imperative to acknowledge food security hurdles on the continent.

According to him, they included regulatory uncertainties, persistent misinformation, and public scepticism which he said, had continued to slow adaptation of scientific innovations.

“That is why this forum is so important, it offers a platform for evidence-based dialogue where diverse voices can engage, ask questions, share insights, and build common understanding,’’ he said.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar, said agriculture in Nigeria faced monumental challenges with potential for food insecurity.

According to her, some of the challenges are climate change, pest infestations and soil degradation, adding that these factors threaten the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers.

She said that in spite of these challenges, opportunities still existed for innovation, collaboration and transformation.

Represented by Prof. Ahmed Dan-Kishiya, Dean, Faculty of Science, Lar expressed optimism that the power of agricultural biotechnology could be harnessed to save Nigeria from hunger.

Edited by Halima Sheji/Uche Anunne

Social media, internet, negatively affect students’ performance, say experts

Philip Daniel Yatai
May, Sun, 2025

Science & Tech

Social media, internet, negatively affect students’ performance, say experts

321 total views today

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

Some educationists say that the internet and social media in spite of their positive impacts, when abused, negatively influenced students’ academic performance and reduced the quality of education in the country.

They said this in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

They told NAN that the widespread use of social media and its misuse had made students become lazy and pay less attention to their studies.

Sadiq Mohammed, Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural and Bio-resources Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Minna, said social media had encouraged examination malpractices among students.

Mohammed said that social media, Artificial Intelligence, and other emerging technologies, though meant to help developing societies, were being misused, particularly in the education sector.

“With the way our education sector is going, we seem doomed because many students go to `magic centres` to write their examinations.

“You see a lot of them leaving the city centres to villages where pre-answered scripts will be passed around in exam halls.

“You realise that they gain admission into the university with fantastic results but along the line they find it difficult to measure up.

“With the coming of AI, most students now relax, they spend more time on their phones, using different applications to write examinations,’’ he said.

According to him, the government needs to empower the education sector on how to checkmate the misuse of AI by students.

Mohammed said that there was a need to implement measures that will guarantee the integrity of the education system.

He said this could be done by scrutinising research papers and addressing the prevailing challenge of copy-and-paste.

He called for an education system that would instil academic discipline among learners.

Mrs Judy Eke, a retired principal, said that it was unfortunate that many parents were encouraging their wards to indulge in examination malpractice through social media.

She said in some instances parents finance such anti-academic behaviour and even provide data for their wards to access the internet for the purpose of exam fraud.

“Parents too are helping to spoil the children by giving them money to go and register for examinations in faraway villages.

“It is so bad that even the educated ones hire machineries to write exams for their children.

“These practices are not helping the students; they no longer value hard work.

“Social media generally is helping to avoid hard work. They believe that every answer that comes from the internet is correct,’’ Eke said.

She further a situation whereby emphasis was placed more on academic qualification and grades instead of capability was encouraging reliance on the internet to perpetrate exam malpractices.

Eke said it was time for the government to declare a state of emergency in the education sector.

Mr Adebayo Adewole, a teacher, said that social media had created access to information, learning opportunities, global connectivity but was also a source of distraction for many students.

According to him, many social media contents misinform the public, especially students.

He said addiction to social media was also affecting students’ performance in both internal and external exams.

“Students spend up to four hours online, yet struggle to commit 30 minutes to their books.

“This is unlike in the past, when students were more focused. Today’s youth are more interested in social media trends than in their education,’ he said.

Adewole added that social media had encouraged cybercrime, exposed the young people to immoral behaviour and urged the authorities to regulate the social media space.

“The educational sector should also help in encouraging students to study the hard copy instead of the soft copy because students no longer study their books; they rely more on the internet.

“You see teachers give students assignments that ordinarily should be done with the aid of the textbook, but you see them going on the internet, making use of AI to do the assignments,’’ he said. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Electric Vehicles will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges–Experts

Magdalene Ukuedojor
May, Sat, 2025

Science & Tech

Electric Vehicles will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges–Experts

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Tolu Aiyegbusi

Automobile technology experts say Electric Vehicles (EVs) technology, if supported by stakeholders, will ease Nigeria’s transportation challenges and drive sustainable development.

They said this on Saturday in Abuja during interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mr Gbenga Bada, an automotive technician at Kugbo, urged government to create more awareness about the benefits of EVs as well as invest in the infrastructure that would stimulate its growth.

“Many Nigerians are still unaware of the benefits and availability of EVs.

“There is also skills and maintenance gap; there is the need for more trained technicians for EV maintenance,’’ he told NAN.

He acknowledged government’s efforts through agencies like the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in promoting EV adoption.

“I think they have launched some EV charging stations and unveiled locally assembled electric buses.

“The government aims to achieve 30 per growth in electric mobility, aligning with the National Automotive Industrial Development Plan.

“China is also investing in EV factories in Nigeria, tapping into the country’s lithium reserves,’’ he said.

According to him, there is growing EV Presence and estimates suggest there are now between 15,000 to 20,000 EVs on Nigerian roads as of early 2025 which is a significant increase from previous years.

He also said the Nigerian market offers considerable potential for EVs growth with its large and growing population, increasing urbanisation.

He said through private sector initiatives global brands were already making their presence felt in Abuja and Lagos.

Mr Austin Emmanuel, a renewable energy expert, said by investing in EVs, the Federal Government would be sending a signal about its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

He said successfully integrating it into the nation’s transport sector would bolster the economy through job creation and ease of movement of humans and goods.

Emmanuel said Nigeria possessed abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, which could sustainably support the functionality of EVs.

“Nigeria has also pledged to achieve 100 per cent zero-emission sales for new cars and vans by 2040.

“This aligns with global climate goals and the need for cleaner transportation solutions that should create a strong demand for EVs.

“The SAGLEV Electromobility Nigeria Limited has launched an EV assembly plant in Lagos, with a target of 10,000 vehicles annually. They are also assembling BRT buses and passenger cars,’’ he said.

He said Nigeria’s potential for EVs impact is remarkably high because its vibrant tech ecosystem provides an opportunity for EVs research and development.

Asabe Daniel, a graduate of Transport Planning and Management, told NAN that EVs would be cost-effective in the long run.

“Initial purchase costs may be high, but in the long run EVs will be generally cheaper to run and maintain due to differences in fuel costs.

She also called for investment in renewable energy sources to power the EVs battery charging infrastructure in Nigeria.

“There is need for a concerted effort involving public and private sectors investment if Nigeria will maximise the potential in EVs.

“To pave the way for a sustainable and successful transition to electric mobility, strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and international development partners is crucial,’’ she said.

NAN recalls that among other initiatives to support EVs adaption in Nigeria, the Federal Government recently approved contracts worth nearly N152 billion to introduce EVs in the north-east.

Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the contracts, approved by the Federal Executive Council, aim to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in the region.

According to him, the contracts include N2.9 billion awarded to Bluecrest Integrated Concept Limited for ten 17-seater electric buses, while Mutual Commitment Company Limited will supply 4,000 e-tricycles for N49.6 billion.

He said Shanghai Integrated Infrastructure Development and Sinoma Investment International Limited will provide an additional 6,000 e-tricycles for N37.2 billion and N16.3 billion, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne