The Chairman, Senate Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation, Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, has warned that Nigeria’s development aspirations will remain elusive unless deliberate investments are made in science, technology, and innovation.
Senator Iya Abbas, representing Adamawa Central, expressed concern over Nigeria’s poor funding of research and development, noting that meaningful economic transformation cannot occur without prioritizing scientific advancement.
The lawmaker criticized the less than ₦10 billion allocated to science and technology in the national budget, questioning how such a small amount could address the nation’s widening innovation and infrastructure gaps.
He advocated for a significant increase in funding for the sector, citing global examples of how science and technology have driven economic growth and development.
Senator Iya Abbas highlighted how recent military operations in the Middle East showcased the power of science, noting that the United States employed stealth aircraft to strike Iran – an operation that would have been impossible without advanced technology.
He emphasized that Nigeria must prioritize science and technology to realize its potential and drive economic growth.
The Lawmaker called for improved budgetary provisions to support science and technology, describing it as the only path for Nigeria to realize its potential.
He urged the government to channel efforts into funding research and development, stressing that there will be no appreciable growth in the economy if this is not done.