Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Chief Henry Ikechukwu Ikoh has said that Nigeria will continue to explore new opportunities to drive the Economic diversification and growth of the country through Science, Technology and Innovation.
The Minister said this, during the Press Briefing on STI EXPO, 2023 held recently in Abuja.

 Chief Henry stated that Nigerian economy has been mono by relying long on oil and gas sector, hence the need to diversify the economy.
The theme of the STI EXPO which is “Actualizing Effective Diversification of the Nigerian Economy through Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)”, he further said, is designed to strategically showcase the use of technology, Inventions, Innovation, Research and Development (R&D) products, with the intention to attract investors.

According to the Minister, STI is one of such sector that hold great potentials for the country to be transformed from consumption to production economy explaining that in transforming the economy, STI has the power to lead and create new industries, businesses, thereby creating employment opportunities that will boost the country’s economy.
Chief Ikoh therefore, called on the stakeholders and all in the sector to use the opportunity to showcase their Inventions, Innovations and research outputs at this year’s STI EXPO.

The Minister assured that the exhibition will provide an opportunity for participants to learn more about the latest invention and to network Inventors, Innovators, Researchers, Start-ups and Investors.

He revealed that the President will have Presidential handshakes and grant scholarships to three best Young Scientists of Nigeria to study science courses to PhD level of any Nigeria University of their choice.

He expressed satisfaction that this year STI EXPO will provide a valuable platform for showcasing the potentials of STI to drive economic growth and development in Nigeria.

Signed
Atuora Obed O.
DD (P&PR)
17th January,2023