Nigeria’s National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has listed four opportunities for fast-tracking industrialization by Nigeria to include Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), investment in local manufacturing, Green Technologies and Digital Transformation.
The Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said at the WorldStage Economic Summit (WES, 2014) in Lagos that collaborative efforts between the Nigerian government, private sector and research institutions were essential for driving technological advancements while PPPs can leverage resources, expertise, and funding to accelerate innovation and industrial growth.
Represented by Mr. Ibrahim Dauda, Coordinating Director FA of NASENI, Halilu said: “Developing local industries can create jobs, reduce imports, and boost the economy. Investing in local manufacturing capabilities strengthens the domestic industrial base and reduces reliance on foreign goods.”
As for Green Technologies, he said that adopting sustainable technologies was crucial for long-term industrial growth as green technologies minimize environmental impact, promote resource efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Halilu added that digital transformation entails harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, AI, the Internet of Things (IoT) and automation in industries to enhance efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. Digital transformation is essential for staying ahead in the global marketplace.
He described industrialization as a cornerstone of national development, driving economic growth, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
“Science and engineering play a pivotal role in this process, serving as the foundation for innovation, production efficiency, and technological advancements,” he said.
“The benefits of industrialization are in employment generation, poverty reduction, improved living standard, improved economic growth and development, balance of payment stability, self-reliance, stimulation of other sectors of the economy, and development of skilled manpower.”
The NASENI boss said that the agency was at the forefront of advancing Nigeria’s science and engineering sectors to propel industrial growth and the role of science and engineering infrastruture Innovation hub, Technology transfer, and skilled workforce.
“Establishing centres for research and development in engineering, material science, and technology is crucial for fostering innovation. These hubs act as catalysts for groundbreaking discoveries and technological breakthroughs, driving industrial progress,” he said.
“Encouraging partnerships between academia, government, and private industries is essential for bridging the gap between research and practical application. This collaboration fosters innovation by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technologies from research institutions to the industrial sector.
“Investing in education, training and retraining programs to produce skilled engineers, scientists, and technologists is paramount. A well-trained workforce is essential for implementing innovative technologies, driving productivity, and ensuring the success of industrialization efforts.”
He said NASENI as the only on-purpose built intervention agency of the Federal Government under the Presidency whose mandate include nurturing an appropriate and dynamic Science and Engineering infrastructure base for achieving home initiated and home sustained industrialization for Nigeria is ready support any innovative idea from Nigerians.
“NASENI is established with similar template like its contemporaries in the diaspora used for industrial development such as Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM), National Science and Technology Development Agency, NSTDA, Thailand, Badan Pengkajian dan Penerapan Teknologi, BPPT, Indonesia, Government Technology Agency, GovTech, of Singapore,” he said.
According to him, NASENI is actively involved in research and development projects in areas such as renewable energy, automation, and advanced manufacturing. These projects aim to develop innovative technologies and solutions for industrial applications.
He listed some of NASENI commercialized products to include NASENI 14-inch Professional Laptop, NASENI Electric KEKE, NASENI IP66 200W Solar Light,
NASENI Android Smartphone, NASENI 10-inch Android Tablet, NASENI Solar Irrigation Pump, NASENI ENERGY SAVING LED LIGHT, NASENI SOLAR GENERATOR.
With a vision of a technologically advanced and industrialized Nigeria, where science and engineering drive economic prosperity and societal progress, he said the agency was committed to playing a pivotal role in realizing this vision.
“Continuous investment in science and engineering is crucial for sustainable industrial growth,” he said, adding: “By prioritizing research, development, and innovation, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and achieve a brighter future.”
GIK/APA