Nigeria’s Problems: Science and Tech to the Rescue
Nigeria and Nigerians are facing a ton of problems, and it’s time for the government to stop wasting money on fancy cars for politicians and start investing in education, especially in science and technology. We need an environment where science and tech can thrive, with the right facilities and funding for researchers to do their thing and solve problems right here at home.
We also need qualified, passionate researchers and scientists who care about Nigerians to make and implement policies for science and technology. That’s the message from Dr. Edwin Andrew Ofudje, the Acting Dean of the College Of Basic and Applied Sciences (CBAS) at Mountain Top University. He was speaking at the 2023 yearly International CBAS conference, and he made it clear that Nigeria’s lack of scientific reasoning and participation is holding us back. We need to step up our game in scientific and technological research to tackle our national challenges, from bad roads to unemployment to environmental issues.
Dr. Ofudje highlighted the need for well-equipped laboratories and facilities to support science and technology in Nigeria. He also mentioned the Research and Development (R&D) focus at Mountain Top University, including a Centre of Genomics and Bio-medicine sponsored by a foreign organization. Their research covers everything from food borne diseases to Artificial Intelligence, using computers and robotics to do what humans can do.
The conference also heard from Prof. Gabriel Ajayi, who emphasized the role of universities in advancing scientific research for sustainable national development. The communique released at the conference stressed the importance of science and technology in driving national development, and the need for better funding to support these efforts.
Prof. Elijah Adebowale Ayolabi, Vice Chancellor of Mountain Top University, highlighted the role of science and technology in improving living conditions and reviving the economy, especially after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the need for innovative solutions and sustainability, with science and technology playing a pivotal role in addressing global challenges.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, spoke about the significance of universities in advancing scientific research for national development. He emphasized the need for universities to be more than just knowledge repositories, but also breeders of intellectual human capital development for national progress.
Finally, Professor Adeniyi Olayanju from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, highlighted the importance of science and technology in nation building. He stressed the need for curriculum updates, collaborations with agro-allied establishments, and increased funding for young researchers to keep up with global scientific advancements.
It’s clear that investing in science and technology is crucial for Nigeria’s future. It’s time to shift our focus and resources towards solving our problems with innovation and research.