FG provides grants to 32 innovators
The Federal Government has awarded the sum of N47m to 32 innovators across the six geopolitical zones through the Presidential Standing Committee on Innovations and Inventions Programme.
The Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, disclosed this in a Wednesday statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the grants ranged from N1m to N5m per beneficiary.
According to the ministry, the programme is to encourage Nigerians, especially those in the informal sector who have viable technological ideas capable of positively impacting the populace and economy.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, revealed that over 600 innovators and inventors across the six geopolitical zones have received funding through the PSCII programme since its launch in 2005.
Speaking at an event in Abuja, Nnaji emphasised that all support provided to innovators and inventors is governed by established operational guidelines and Terms of Reference, ensuring a structured and transparent process.
The minister, represented by the Permanent Secretary at the ministry, Esuabana Nko-Asanye, said the ministry is making effort to improve the budgetary allocation for the PSCII.
“Also, collaborations with relevant stakeholders such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Petroleum Technology Development Fund, National Universities Commission, National Board for Technical Education, Raw Materials Research and Development Council, the National Planning Commission, etc, are facilitating the achievement of the ultimate goal of the PSCII programme by providing a solid foundation for a technological break-through in the country, as well as improving the socio-economic well-being of Nigerians.”
Nnaji emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment to collaborating with the private sector to drive the success of the programme.
He said the partnership aims to establish a solid foundation for technological advancements, ultimately boosting Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
By fostering global competitiveness, Nnaji noted that the programme would create jobs, generate wealth, and enhance the overall wellbeing and quality of life for Nigerians.
The minister urged grant recipients to use the funds wisely and work diligently to overcome the challenges of unemployment and poverty, contributing to the country’s prosperity.
