In a bid to propel economic growth and ensure sustainable development, Nigeria and its member-states must prioritize the development and deployment of new technologies, says Professor Olalekan Akinbo of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD).
Akinbo, serving as a Supervisor at the AUDA-NEPAD Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology, and Innovation, shared this insight during an interview in Abuja.
According to him, adopting new technologies holds the key to safeguarding the environment, enhancing productivity, generating wealth, and fostering sustainable employment opportunities.
“At different levels of economic growth, innovation and technology are essential for promoting structural change.
“Increasing one’s competitiveness is built on top of these,” Akinbo said.
ALSO READ: Technology, social media important in addressing sexual abuse
He noted that evidence-based analysis revealed that technology could help in the development of the economy, society and the environment.
“Experts agree that nations must reconsider technological innovation and ensure its application is sustainable to avoid economic and environmental catastrophe.
It is pertinent that governments understand the role of technological innovation in ensuring sustainable and equitable development.”
“This is achievable by supplying the necessary tools to make decisions that will benefit all.
” Sustainable, innovative technology will also create more fulfilling and inclusive opportunities,” said Akinbo.
Akinbo further noted that at many levels of government and industries, Nigeria had a better chance of reaping the benefits of innovative technological breakthroughs if they were readily available.
He also pointed out that human and physical resource expansions as well as investment in research and development are critical to the success of the enabling environment.
“Nigeria can increase capacity for innovation by measuring its performance, using its strengths, resolving its innovation weaknesses, and learning from the best practices of nations emerging as leaders in innovation.
” This is crucial for fostering an atmosphere that promotes inclusive and long-term economic development,” the AUDA supervisor said.
He, however, expressed optimism that there are resources available for policymakers to utilise in developing national innovation policies.
NAN
