By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has awarded ₦47 million in grants to 36 notable inventors and innovators through the 2023 Presidential Standing Committee on Inventions and Innovations (PSCII). This funding underscores Nigeria’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy and highlights the role of technological innovation in national development.
During a ceremony held in Abuja, Minister Chief Uche Nnaji stressed that Nigeria’s future success hinges more on advancing technological capabilities than on relying solely on natural resources. Since its inception in 2005, the PSCII has provided support to over 600 innovators across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, demonstrating the government’s dedication to fostering creativity in the informal sector.
Dr. Patricia Uche Chukwu, Director-General of the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), celebrated the PSCII’s role in driving technological progress, which she sees as vital for economic growth and efficient production.
Permanent Secretary Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye urged the grant recipients to utilize their funding effectively to advance their inventions and support Nigeria’s industrialization efforts.