PRESS RELEASE.
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF INNOVATION, SCIENCE, AND TECHNOLOGY INAUGURATE IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE IN COLLABORATION WITH ASSOCIATION OF COMPUTER VILLAGE MERCHANTS OF NIGERIA ON R&D IN ICT and TECHNOLOGY
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) today inaugurated the Implementation Committee for the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the Association of Computer Village Merchants of Nigeria (ACOVIMN). The event, held in Abuja, marks a pivotal step in fostering collaboration in research, ICT development, and skills acquisition to drive Nigeria’s technological and economic growth.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, and the National Coordinator of the Startegy Implementation Task Office for the Presidential Executive Order No 5, Engr. Dr. Ibiam Oguejiofo, introduced members of the Committee which include; Mr. Anthony Nwakeze, the President of ACOVIMN who will serve as the Vice Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Patricks Oghuma, Secretary of the Committee, others are Dr. Robert Ngwu Special Adviser to the Hon Minister as member of the Committee, Mr. Agoro Olayiwola, Mr. Fidelis Ezeugwu, Mr. Henry Igbo, Barr. Ngozi Agbapuonwu, Dr . Christpeace Ezebuiro also as members and Mr. Collins Agwu as the Assistant Secretary.
Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “This committee underscores the commitment of the Federal Government under the Renewed Hope Agenda “ to bridge the gap between government policies and grassroots technology entrepreneurs, ensuring inclusive growth and wealth creation.”
The MOU focuses on key objectives such as job creation, development of ICT and skills acquisition centre in geopolitical zones of the country for youths and women, promotion of locally developed technology solutions, and the establishment of a thriving ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs in alignment with Presidential Executive Order 5 and Nigeria First Policy. The Implementation Committee, comprising experts in engineering, science, technology, and innovation, is tasked with ensuring the successful execution of these goals.
The Honourable Minister urged committee members to leverage their expertise and deliver actionable recommendations and projects that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration. He reiterated the ministry’s full support for the initiative and called for regular progress reports to guide policy formulation.
The ceremony concluded with the formal inauguration of the committee, as the Minister declared, “I congratulate the members and declare this committee duly inaugurated.”
This partnership is expected to position Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation in Nigeria and the rest of Africa, driving sustainable development and economic empowerment.