The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has expressed commitment to work with the Federal Government to develop and promote the nation’s science, technology and innovation ecosystem.

NAS President, Prof. Abubakar Sambo, made the pledge at the induction of 11 new Fellows of the academy and public lecture with the theme, “Innovative Research and Strategic Partnerships: Catalysts for Sustainable Institutional Development.”

Sambo observed that the academy has produced scientists who have distinguished themselves and can use their various specialisation to proffer policy frameworks that can help in moving the country forward in the science and technology space.

He explained that the induction of new fellows is part of activities aimed at promoting excellence in science and technology. “These inductees are the best scientists the country has ever produced. Anybody who has succeeded in becoming a fellow is a distinguished scientist who can use his specialisation to proffer policy frameworks on science and technology.”

Delivering the public lecture, a Research Director at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Prof. Babatunde Rabiu, said that innovative research is critical for any form of national development, adding that no nation can rise above the level of its research capability.

Rabiu emphasised that innovative research and strategic partnerships are essential catalysts required for the sustainable development of the tertiary institutions, research and development establishments in the country.

“Major problems threatening the future of our institutions of concern are funding, human resources, and infrastructure. The strategic partnership facilitates the pooling of resources capable of meeting these basic needs that can sustain our institutions beyond the present dispensation.”

Rabiu called for sustainable institutional development, adding that any nations that fail to invest in innovative research will remain the dumping ground for technologies developed by other countries.

One of the inductees, who is a biochemistry expert, Prof. Abiodun Adebayo, emphasised the need for homegrown scientific solutions to Nigeria’s pressing challenges.