Renowned virologist and public health expert, Professor Oyewale Tomori, emphasized the crucial role of science and technology in addressing Nigeria’s underdevelopment during his recent lecture at the Federal University Lokoja.
In his thought-provoking address, titled “The Conflicting Confluence of Science and Society,” Professor Tomori highlighted the country’s overreliance on imported technology and the urgent need for massive investment in research and development.
Professor Tomori lamented Nigeria’s tendency to take shortcuts by importing finished technologies from other nations, which are then labeled as “transfer of technology.” He drew attention to the country’s practice of importing knocked-down vehicle parts, only to have a Nigerian Executive Managing Director oversee their assembly. This approach, according to Professor Tomori, fails to foster true technological development and innovation within the nation.
To address this challenge, Professor Tomori called on the federal government to prioritize investment in science and technology. He urged tertiary institutions across the country to transform their research findings into actionable documents that the government can use as a roadmap for national development.
He further stressed the need for mentorship programs to enhance the quality and impact of research, while emphasizing the importance of aligning research efforts with national priorities.
Highlighting the significance of science and technology in shaping society, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, commended Professor Tomori’s expertise and contributions to public health policy. He underscored the transformative potential of scientific advancements, asserting that they have the power to improve lives and drive societal progress.
Nigeria, with its abundant human and natural resources, has the potential to become a global leader in science and technology. However, to achieve this, the country must invest significantly in research and development, foster a culture of innovation, and provide the necessary infrastructure and resources.
By prioritizing science and technology, Nigeria can address pressing national challenges, such as poverty, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Scientific research can lead to groundbreaking solutions that enhance agricultural productivity, improve healthcare delivery systems, and create sustainable energy sources.
Moreover, investing in science and technology can stimulate economic growth by attracting foreign direct investment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating employment opportunities for the country’s burgeoning youth population.
It is crucial that the Nigerian government moves beyond mere lip service and takes concrete steps to support the development of science and technology. This includes allocating sufficient resources to research institutions, promoting collaboration between academia and industry, and establishing policies that incentivize innovation and technology transfer.
Professor Tomori’s call for massive investment in science and technology resonates deeply with Nigeria’s need to overcome its underdevelopment. By embracing research, innovation, and technological advancement,
Nigeria can chart a sustainable path towards progress and prosperity. It is time for the nation to harness its intellectual capital and natural resources to create a brighter future for all Nigerians.
