Tinubu to African leaders: Harness science, innovation for economic growth

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on African leaders to leverage the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to drive the continent’s economic growth. He stated this in Abuja at the 15th edition of the African Academy of Science (AAS) Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference. The event, with the theme “Empowering and Advancing […]

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on African leaders to leverage the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to drive the continent’s economic growth.

He stated this in Abuja at the 15th edition of the African Academy of Science (AAS) Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference.

The event, with the theme “Empowering and Advancing Africa’s Scientific Enterprise,” brought together over 300 participants from across Africa and the world to discuss the future of science on the continent.

Represented by the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Chief Uche Nnaji, President Tinubu said Africa has significant potential in STI to enhance its development.

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He highlighted the role of science, innovation, and technology in transforming sectors such as agriculture, industry, and poverty eradication.

He said, “Let us harness the power of science to transform our society, uplift our economies, and improve the quality of life for all Africans.”

Dr Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), stressed the importance of investing in female education to increase the number of female scientists in Africa.

Represented by the UNFPA Secretary in Nigeria, Nathaniel Nau, Dr Kanem advocated for increased investment in girl child education, healthcare, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, noting that these areas are critical for advancing Africa’s scientific community.

The President of the AAS, Prof. Lise Korsten, said while Africa has made progress in scientific productivity, with a 135% increase in publications from 2014 to 2022, its contributions still account for only 3.6% of global scientific output.

Prof. Korsten stressed the need for continued investment and commitment to strengthen Africa’s capacity for research and innovation.