Expo 2023: FG seeks Public, Private sector partnership to fund research, in STI

By Ignatius Okorocha

Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (STI) has concluded plans to attract public and private sector partnership to fund research, innovation and Diversification of the nation’s Economy.

Speaking at a media briefing on Friday to Flag-off Expo 2023 organize by Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation tagged, “Actualizing Effective Diversification of the Nigerian through Science, Technology and Innovation, Minister of State, Chief Henry Ikoh said this year’s programme is aimed at attracting investors to invest in our country.

The programme which kicks off on Monday, January 26, to end on Friday 20 January 2023 at the Eagle Square Abuja is scheduled to attract Nigerians from all walks of life.

According to the Minister, the aim of this year’s theme of the Technology and Innovation Expo 2023 is to actualize the potential of STI to diversify the Nigerian economy, noting, ” It is important that we create an enabling Environment for innovation and invention.”

He further explained that other objectives of the programme were to provide access to funding, creating a culture of innovation within government and private sector organizations as well as encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors.

” I am happy to inform you that previous editions of the programmes have been yielding the desired results. Many products have been commercialized.

“Researchers, Innovators and Investors have interacted and are interacting through knowledge sharing and working together to come up with products that could solve national problems among others, ” he said.

Continuing the Minister, noted that one of the highlights of the this year’s Expo will be innovation Exhibitions which will feature cutting-edge technologies and products developed by Nigerian investors, Innovators, researchers and start-ups.

He added that the forum will provide a platform for discussing the latest research and technologies for connecting researchers with potential investors and partners.

Chief Ikoh declared that President Muhammadu Buhari who is billed to flag off the event will mark the opening ceremony of the Expo 2023 with presentation of award of scholarship to three best young scientists to read in any University of their choice from first degree up to PHD levels.