SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE: FG, AAS COLLABORATE FOR SUCCESSFUL HOSTING
In its bid to ensure a seamless visa application for participants of its Bi- Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference, the Federal Government is collaborating with the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) for a successful hosting of the event.
Making this known is the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo when he received in audience, a delegation from the AAS on a courtesy visit to his office, led by its General Secretary, Prof. Friday Okonofua on Friday in Abuja .
The Minister stated that hosting of the AAS Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference in Nigeria is a welcome development as every innovation is a product of research and science.
He urged the AAS not to limit the number of participants to 1000, to pave the way for youths to participate.
"Let us open our space to look at young innovators because science is like the foundation; it is essential in all spheres of life. Technology is a product of science; anything called development is a product of science and Nigeria needs it now. Nigeria cannot just be seen as the Giant of Africa based on our population but based on our contribution to Africa's GDP and our ability to proffer solutions to regional problems. This is a golden moment for Nigeria "he said.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured the delegation that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration has made conscious efforts to ensure the country harnesses opportunities in the science and technology value chain.
This conference according to him is a golden opportunity to showcase Nigeria, bridge gaps and create career paths for the teeming population of the country. It is expected that hosting the conference in Nigeria would bring about a transition towards innovation for efficiency and development.
He acknowledged the commitment of AAS to research, science and development in Africa.
Dr. Tunji -Ojo also used the opportunity of the visit to brief the guests of innovations carried out in the Nigeria Immigration Service. In particular, he announced the forthcoming opening of the e-gates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja
The Minister also commended Prof. Friday Okonofua for his innovation and contributions as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the first University of Medical Science in Nigeria established in Ondo State.
Earlier in his speech, the General secretary of AAS, Prof. Friday Okonofua commended the Honourable Minister for his proactiveness in pushing the country forward.
He stated that his team was in the Ministry to brief the Minister on the upcoming African Academy of Sciences Bi-annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference, scheduled for December in Abuja.
He mentioned that this is the first time the conference will be held in Nigeria.
"This ceremony would be receiving 1,000 scientists from across Africa including African Presidents, Heads of State and the likes of Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
"We are here to seek collaboration and your advice on how to ensure the event will hold in a seamless environment." he said .
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by Ozoya Imohimi, Director, Press and Public Relations of the Ministry of Interior and made available to journalists..
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