By Mercy Aikoye
A bill to establish the National Commission for Technology Transfer, Acquisition, and Promotion has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Clement Jimbo, aims to leverage Nigeria’s large and active population to create jobs for youths, process raw materials into finished goods, and increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
According to Jimbo, the bill seeks to ensure regular value addition to Nigeria’s solid mineral exploration. He emphasized the need to create sustainable jobs for the country’s teeming youths. The bill also aims to increase Nigeria’s revenue base through foreign exchange.
Jimbo noted that Nigeria has a huge market for various products, including cell phones, solar systems, cars, cameras, microphones, laptops, and remote controls. He pointed out that all these products have one thing in common: batteries. The major ingredient in battery production is lithium, a solid mineral that has been discovered in large quantities in Nigeria.
The proposed commission will continuously monitor the inflow of foreign products and technology into Nigeria. This move is expected to promote local content development, create jobs, and increase the country’s GDP. Jimbo stressed that the bill has no financial implications when passed into law, as it complies with relevant sections of the Standing Orders of the House.
The bill’s passage is seen as a significant step towards promoting Nigeria’s economic development. By establishing the National Commission for Technology Transfer, Acquisition, and Promotion, the country can better harness its solid mineral resources and create sustainable jobs for its youths.
Jimbo urged his colleagues to expedite the passage of the bill, emphasizing its potential to improve the lives of Nigerians. He noted that the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, has expressed support for the bill, stating that the government will do everything possible to discourage the carting away of Nigeria’s solid minerals without value addition.
The bill’s passage is a positive development for Nigeria’s economic growth and development. By promoting local content development, creating jobs, and increasing the country’s GDP, the National Commission for Technology Transfer, Acquisition, and Promotion can play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
