Soludo Calls For Mainstreaming Of Technological Innovation As National Policy, Declares Anambra Home Of Innovation

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has called for a National Framework for the development of innovation and technology.

Governor Soludo made the call at the International Convention Center, Awka during a National Innovation Workshop, organized by the Senate Committee on Science and Technology.
The event had the theme, “Promotion of Local Inventors of Science, Technology and Innovation.” 
According to the Governor who appreciated the Senate committee for organising the National workshop in Anambra, stated that the state is the home and appropriate place for innovation, science and technology in the country.
He pointed out that technological innovation is fast becoming the way of life, as people are trying to play catch up and disclosed that the automotive industrial park in Anambra is almost up and running.
While declaring his administration’s readiness to give neccessary support, the Governor further revealed that his administration is already mainstreaming Science, Technology and Innovation, saying that part of the vision is to make Anambra the digital tribe destination.
Governor Soludo who disclosed his passion about empowering the youths, canvassed for patronage and promotion of inventions and innovations by the government and people, stressing that if people innovate and invent and nobody patronizes them, it becomes a nullity and the jobs are in most cases, shifted abroad.
The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo who was represented by the Minister of State for Science and Technology, Henry Ikoh described the event as a unique platform that offers opportunities to rebrand the technological ecosystem, emphasizing that it is the path towards bridging the gap between the poor and the rich and shifts emphasis on production rather than consumption.
He expressed optimism that the positive outcome will change the narrative, to engender all inclusive economic growth and development.
Earlier, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Science and Technology who is the Senator representing Anambra Central, Senator Uche Ekwunife expressed no doubt about Nigeria’s rich human capital and capacity to bring out the much needed innovation and inventions that will reduce poverty and engender prosperity.
Senator Ekwunife revealed that under her leadership in the Senate, she will intensify on Research and Innovation as well as increase awareness among Nigerians on the importance of STI in the life of the nation.
While commending the organizers of the event, representatives of the Delta, Enugu, Edo and Bayelsa State Governors expressed sadness that the Nation Nigeria rely on oil and gas to sponsor the budgets which has not worked, emphasizing that to drive development is to innovate.
Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Uche Okafor, the Senator representing Anambra South, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, State Executive Council Members among others, attended the event.