...A Year of Groundbreaking Achievements and Strategic Partnerships

Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji's one-year tenure as Minister of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has been truly remarkable! Since taking office on August 16, 2023, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have catapulted Nigeria's innovation and technology landscape to new heights. As the Honourable Minister, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, marks a successful year in office, we take a moment to reflect on the numerous groundbreaking achievements and strategic partnerships that have defined his tenure.

Chief Uche Nnaji, through the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, FMIST, launched the National Cleantech Innovation Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (CIEE) to bridge the commercialization gap faced by cleantech startups and SMEs. Despite the initiative’s potential to drive economic development and renewable energy access, these enterprises often struggle with the "valley of death"—technical and financial barriers. The UNIDO-led GCIP, supported by his ministry, FMIST, addresses these challenges by offering business acceleration services and connecting startups with investors through research grants and intensive training for those who apply, creating a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.

One of the notable achievements of the Minister's first year in office is the successful launch of the Tech-Advantage Nigeria initiative, a platform designed to provide skills acquisition, learning, community apprenticeship, and marketplace opportunities for Nigerians. This initiative has the potential to empower thousands of young Nigerians and stimulate economic growth.

The minister's efforts to promote renewable energy have also yielded significant results; the establishment of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi State, and the Solar PV Module Assembly Plant in Nkanu West L.G.A. of Enugu State. The later can significantly enhance the research and local production of solar PV modules. These renewable energy projects are testaments to honourable minister’s commitment to sustainable skill/local content development, increased investment, and carbon emission reduction. 

Minister Nnaji has facilitated several strategic partnerships, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Association of Computer Village Technology Merchants of Nigeria (ACOVITEMN) to advance the country's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. He has also partnered with international organizations, such as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), to enhance agricultural productivity through space technology. This collaboration aims to enhance agricultural productivity through space technology, specifically the CropWatch program. The focus is shifting towards sustainable practices and regenerative agriculture, which aims to improve soil health and fertility, leading to long-term benefits, while incorporating carbon dioxide removal (CDR) techniques that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The minister has also launched the National Policy on Welding, a crucial initiative addressing the long-standing neglect in the sector. Despite having over a million welders, Nigeria loses $10 billion annually due to the lack of international certification, hindering our local professionals. To tackle this, his ministry introduced the National Policy on Welding and plans to establish Centers of Welding Excellence in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Welding across the six geopolitical zones.

In his commitment to harnessing the power of biotechnology to address pressing agricultural challenges, enhance crop resilience, and improve the livelihoods of our people, the honorable minister launched the commercial release and open cultivation of transgenic insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties known as TELA Maize, along with other high-yielding crop varieties.

Furthermore, The Ministry secured approval for four new satellites (three optical, one SAR) to enhance security, agriculture, and more. FMIST partnered with Adani Defense and AVIC-KDN for the establishment of a local unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturing plant, advancing our drone technology and production. Through a joint development with GETS System Israel for advanced coastal radar systems to strengthen maritime surveillance and security, FMIST also developed unmanned ground vehicles, innovative magnetometers, and new solar cells, marking significant strides in tech innovation.

Other notable achievements of the Minister's first year in office include:

1. Signing an MOU between the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, FMIST, and Entrust Microgrid, UK, on lithium battery technology development. This partnership unlocks the value chain for the development, repurposing, and production of lithium-ion batteries in Nigeria. Nigeria's lithium deposits grant us the potential to become a global leader in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.
2. Signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) supported by the German government with the West African Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) to collaborate on advancing green hydrogen technology in Nigeria. This partnership focuses on promoting green hydrogen and strengthening capacity building in Nigerian universities, particularly in Minna and Akure, where WASCAL has already funded over 500 graduate students. The collaboration seeks to position Nigeria as a leader in green hydrogen in West Africa, enhance educational infrastructure, and create a skilled workforce to drive innovation in this emerging field.
3. The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Domineum/Edenbase UK for the development of Abuja Tech City (ATC). Tech cities are the catalysts for rapid industrialization and enhancement of operational synergy within critical sectors.
4. Signing a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) for the establishment of a cassava-based ethanol plant between the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Montserrado, and the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO). The cassava-to-ethanol industry represents a powerful engine for economic growth. It will support our local farmers, create a sustainable supply chain, and stimulate employment across the agricultural sector.
5. Launching the National Flag-Off Training Program for Nigerian youths on FIIRO Auto Gas Conversion of Vehicles and Generators
6. Signing an MOU through NASRDA with the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) to revitalize efforts towards human spaceflight and facilitate Nigeria’s first human space flight. Human spaceflight has been a key national objective since the approval of the National Space Policy and Program (NSPP) in 2001.
7. Fostering collaboration with the Chemical Society of Nigeria to advance chemistry for national development. Additionally, his ministry recognizes the value of having CSN nominees on ministry boards. On that premise, regarding the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Chemistry House, a facility designed to foster growth in all areas of chemistry but left uncompleted, the minister assured that the Ministry will explore ways to support its completion.
8. The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology and NABRDA partnered with FLUX Carbon Pte Limited to launch a groundbreaking initiative that introduces enhanced rock weathering technology to Nigerian farms. The partnership aimed to enhance crop yields, improve soil health, and advance climate action.

Today, we celebrate not only his achievements but also his visionary leadership that has positioned Nigeria for sustainable growth and development. As we look to the future, we wish Minister Nnaji continued success in his office. His dedication to innovation, science, and technology has the potential to transform Nigeria's economy and improve the lives of its citizens.

CONGRATULATIONS, Honourable Minister, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji on a successful year in office! We look forward to seeing the impact of your initiatives in the years to come.

Engr. Onoh Ikechukwu Maxwell, Ph.D., MBA, MNSE, R.Engr. (COREN), NEBOSH-IGC