The Director-General of the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), Dr. Olushola Odusanya, says the agency is leading efforts to promote data-driven policymaking through effective Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) data management in Nigeria.
Odusanya stated this in an interview with reporters on Monday in Abuja.
He explained that NACETEM plays a crucial role in helping ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) formulate and implement policies based on reliable data and scientific evidence.
“We are the think tank of Nigeria. We examine the laws that become policies, conduct research on them, analyse their impacts, identify gaps, and create opportunities to bridge those gaps,” he said.
According to him, NACETEM has a strong research base made up of over 100 professionals who continuously collect and analyse data to support evidence-based decision-making across various sectors.
Odusanya said the agency’s work includes the production of STI Indicators, which provide policymakers with valuable insights into national development trends and challenges.
He also highlighted NACETEM’s commitment to human capacity development, particularly through efforts to enhance digital literacy among public servants.
“We recognise that many public servants lack basic digital literacy, so we have embarked on a programme to provide essential digital training.
“When adopting data, statistics becomes crucial. That’s why we have developed a suite of statistical and data management programmes to train people and bridge that gap,” he explained.
Odusanya added that the agency had digitised most of its training programmes through its online academy to improve accessibility and reach a wider audience.
The NACETEM director-general reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy through research, training, and policy advisory services.
