FG to mark World Science Day, urges scientists to drive innovation for national growth

The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) has announced plans to commemorate this year’s World Science Day for Peace and Development on November 10, reaffirming its commitment to advancing scientific research and innovation for Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.

Esuabana Nko-Asanye, permanent secretary to the ministry in a statement, said the event — established by UNESCO in 2001 — aims to strengthen national and international cooperation in science while ensuring that knowledge and technological progress are used to promote peace, unity, and shared prosperity.

“Science must never be used to divide or harm,” Nko-Asanye said. “It should remain a tool for strengthening humanity and advancing sustainable development.”

She emphasised that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) form the foundation of national development and should be accessible to all, not confined to select institutions or individuals.

According to her, emerging technologies should be applied to improve lives, build inclusive economies, and foster positive social change.

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The permanent secretary reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education, innovation, infrastructure, and climate action, which she said are key drivers of Nigeria’s industrial and economic transformation.

She also challenged Nigerian scientists, technologists, and innovators to aspire toward global excellence, saying: “We must build a culture of innovation capable of producing Nobel laureates in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. Nigeria has the talent — what we need is the focus and collaboration.”

The celebration, she noted, will include activities aimed at promoting public engagement with science and inspiring young people to pursue careers in research and innovation.

Ruth Tene Natsa

Ruth Tene, Assistant Editor, Agric/Solid Minerals/INEC Ruth Tene is an award-winning journalist with over 15 years experience in developmental reporting across several newsrooms, as a reporter, editor and other managerial roles. She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the University of Maiduguri among several other certifications She has attended several trainings and certifications both locally and internationally and has been recognized for her impactful work in humanitarian reporting, receiving the Gold Award for Humanitarian Services from the Amazing Grace Foundation. She is also a recipient of the Home Alliance Fellowship, reflecting her commitment to fostering a more humane, safer and more sustainable planet. An active member of professional journalism bodies, Ruth is affiliated with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and the Agricultural Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ACAN), where she continues to advocate for excellence, ethical reporting, and development-focused journalism.