BELIEVING that Nigeria has huge relevant skills and indigenous technology potentials, Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, has called on the Federal Government to place a ban on the importation of science equipment.The governor, who visited theheadquarters of the National Agency for Science Engineering and Infrastructure (NASENI) in Abuja at the weekend, noted many local research agencies had proven that they had the potentials to produce relevant science tools and kits to revolutionise the technology world in Nigeria and neighbouring countries.He stressed however, that relevant financial and policy support were needed to make such agencies produce to full capacity and satisfy the local market.Addressing the scientists, technologists and craftsmen at NASENI, the governor said: 'When I leave here today, I will see the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, to advise that henceforth all importation of science equipment to Nigeria should stop while such funds should be diverted to further build the capacities of institutions like NASENI. When we do this we will be able to conserve our foreign exchange and also build the local capacities of our people even as such support will generate employment opportunities for the teeming unemployed youths in the country.'I saw wonders today in NASENI having seen several inventions and innovations developed by the agency. I am convinced and encouraged that Nigeria and Bauchi state has a great future. NASENI has acquired the capability to create an enabling knowledge-driven, environment for local mass-production of standard parts, goods and services required for the nation's technology advancement. I don't know the number of Nigerians who know your own capabilities. It is only today that I have come to terms with the realities of the capabilities in this agency that can make Nigeria to launch a rocket from here, rather than in China where we launched the last Nigerian communication satellite.'The governor, however, expressed concern on why many Nigerians and governments were not aware of the great work going on at the agency and other research institutes spread across the nooks and crannies of the country.While pledging henceforth to act like an ambassador to the work of the agency, he also pledged to speak to President Jonathan on the need for financial support to NASENI.He also called on other governors in the country to turn their eyes towards investing in NASENI by stopping the importation of science equipment for educational institutions or other industrial goods. He was convinced that the agency could produce e quality of such equipment.Meanwhile, Yuguda has said he is looking for new and innovative ways of adding value to both human and material endowments of the state in line with the transformation agenda of his government.His visit to NASENI was to seek areas of technical co-operation and partnership to deploy science and technology tools to transform and develop economic activities of Bauchi State.He said his government has realized that it would be impossible for any government to develop its economy in modern times without support from the knowledge and skills made available to man by science and technology.Acting Director General of the agency, Dr. Mohammed Haruna, explained that one institute, the Heavy Machinery and Equipment Development Centre (HEMEDEC), which is yet to take off was approved for establishment in Bauchi State by Federal Government in year 2004.He told the governor that logistic problems and lack of counterpart funding from stakeholders were the major setbacks for the smooth take-off of the centre.
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