By Yemi Adedeji, Abuja
Ogbonnaya Onu, Minister of Science and Technology has called for a new security framework for the nation with the upgrade of instruments of warfare through scientific research and innovation.
Onu made the call while delivering a lecture at the National Defence College (NDC) , Abuja, Course 26 Participants, with the theme “ National Science and Technology Policy in Nigeria : An Overview”.
He said that rather than Nigeria depending on purchase of weapons from other nations, but should build her own weapons as emerging forces of globalization demands that the country must secure her citizens and safe guard the nation.
“This cannot be meaningfully achieved without placing emphasis on Science and Technology, if Nigeria is to build a strong and resilient economy that is diversified in order to enable us withstand the shock that might arise from sudden drop in crude oil price in future.”
“We cannot continue to depend on others to meet our needs as a nation. Nigeria has come of age. We cannot continue to be a nation of mere consumers, we must work hard to become a nation that produces and consumes,” he said.
He appealed to the Armed Forces to imbibe a patriotic spirit to complement the achievements of the founding fathers of modern Nigeria who were great men and women of vision.
Earlier, Adeniji Osinowo, Commandant of National Defence College, said that Science and Technology is an important tool for the nation to move forward but cited policy implementation of programmes as the challenge facing the third world nations.
