MINISTER PROFFERS S/T SOLUTION TO NIGER DELTA CRISIS

In what may be deemed a frontal attack into the unending crisis situation in the Niger Delta Region of the country, the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology (HMST), Mrs. Grace Ekpiwhre JP, MNI, has resolved to deploy Science and Technology as an instrument for wealth creation, employment and industrial development in the Region.

Mrs.  Ekpiwhre who met for the first time, Director Generals of the parastatals under her supervision, said the ministry would soon introduce micro and cottage level resources-based investment opportunities in the region which would engage the youths and other relevant stakeholders to bring about industrial and economic sustainability in the Niger Delta line with 7-point Agenda of president Yar’ Adua which has placed the Niger Delta at a prime focus.
         
The honourable Minister therefore tasked the parastatals to urgently identify key programmes and projects, either outgoing or new, for immediate implementation that would lead to immediate impact on the grassroots.

The HMST further directed the Heads of parastatals to immediately commence compilation of all S&T programmes and projects in this regard with a view to categorizing into short term, medium and long terms for purposes of funding by government. 

Mrs. Ekpiwhre also expressed the need to address the issue of brain drain by identifying the obstacles which caused frustration to scientists, researchers and innovators with a view to removing them immediately, to encourage the domestic science, technology and innovation system to positively respond to national needs, and to encourage those resources in the Diaspora to return home and participate in industrial and nation building.  

The first ever female Minister of Science and Technology also vowed  to utilize her wealth of experience in the public service to bear on her mission targeted at achieving high level strategic management for progress cost effectiveness and maximized visibility even as she called for partnership to achieve the goals of national development through science, inventions and innovations. 

The forum also provided the opportunity for the various parastatals under the FMST to showcase their activities and achievements through a mini exhibition mounted in the RMRDC pavilion in her honour.