Nigeria’s NEC urges state governments to patronise NASENI’s technological innovations

*Nigerian Vice-President (Senator) Kashim Shettima, at the 146th NEC meeting, urges State Governments to patronise technological innovations developed by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, as the agency is seeking NEC’s support to establish manufacturing industries in states, access local natural raw materials, streamline processes related to land and seaport facilitation, as well as guidance or partnerships to tap into the public sector market

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

In a move to fast-track Nigeria’s industrialisation, the National Economic Council (NEC) has urged state governments to patronise technological innovations developed by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

Vice-President (Senator) Kashim Shettima stated this at the 146th NEC meeting, which he chaired in the Presidential Villa, in Abuja, FCT.

Shettima’s call is sequel to a presentation by Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman of NASENI, in which he detailed a strategic roadmap by the Agency for the country’s industrialisation.

One of NASENI’s tech innovations

Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, Director of Information at NASENI, in a statement Monday, November 25, 2024, said Halilu in his presentation titled, “NASENI Economic Transformation Through Advancement in Technology Transfer and Adaptation”, highlighted the agency’s focus in critical sectors, such as Renewable Energy & Sustainability, Health & Biotechnology, Agriculture & Food Manufacturing, Sustainable Transportation & Mobility, Digital Technology, Construction & Smart City, Defense & Aerospace.

The statement noted NASENI sought NEC’s support to establish manufacturing industries in states, access local natural raw materials, streamline processes related to land and seaport facilitation, as well as guidance or partnerships to tap into public sector market, assistance to set up showrooms for NASENI products and favourable policies to promote the agency’s activities.

Halilu also explained the agency’s innovations in energy security, including electric vehicles, NASENI Solar Home Systems for enhanced rural electrification; Smart devices including laptops and tablets tailored for Nigeria’s market; and Solar irrigation pumps and coal-based fertilizers to improve agricultural productivity.

The EVC/CEO of NASENI restated the agency’s commitment to transforming Nigeria into a global innovation powerhouse through technology transfer, product commercialisation.

According to him, the agency is working with key partners on NASENI Troment (Vaccine factory), NASENI Portland (CNG Centre), NASENI Devfrontier (Solar light & battery), NASENI Renewable Park and NASENI Family Homes (Sustainable homes).

“Our mission is clear: to make NASENI the ‘go-to’ institution for technology transfer in Nigeria,” he stated.

Halilu further disclosed the agency has attracted $3.23 billion in investments, launched the DELT-Her initiative for female engineers, and how the Agency is championing renewable energy projects.

The Director of Information stated the National Economic Council applauded NASENI’s efforts at driving local manufacturing and industrial development.

The statement noted that NEC, “therefore, directed the Agency to scale up the establishment of lithium battery factories in resource-rich regions and repair tractors nationwide under the National Asset Restoration Programme.

The NEC meeting further resolved to harness NASENI’s tailored support for manufacturing and public sector partnerships, ensuring Nigeria benefits from infrastructure, policy frameworks, and market access critical for economic diversification.

“NASENI remains committed to working with states and the private sector to unlock Nigeria’s potential for industrial innovation and sustainable development,” said Ayeoyenikan.