By Dele Ogbodo
The Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu has called on UNESCO to raise the awareness and lead the dialogue on open science day.
This according to government will ensure that scientists meet their targets in bridging the gap in technology innovation.
The Minister of Science and Technology called for the evolution of new entrepreneurs that would key into the vast opportunities in the new world of science and technology.
Speaking on the World Science Day with the Theme: “Open Science, Leaving no One Behnid” in Abuja, Dr. Onu said if Nigeria should pay more attention to science and innovation, the standard of living of the people and business opportunities will improve, adding that from medium business enterprises, Nigerians will gradually catch up with the rest of the developed world.
He also called on all Nigerians to embrace science and technology as a way of life so as to attain food security.
Onu said Nigerians should not be left behind on the scientific train, adding that both the old or the young, male or female should join the tremendous progress of science and technology.
“It is no longer story to know that science and technology has changed the world through innovation and scientific research, he added.
While emphasizing that every Nigerian is a scientist, Dr. Onu further stressed the need for Nigerians to strive to improve in every areas of their endeavors to achieve concrete results.
The Minster further appealed to the youths to emulate the old one who have excelled in science and technology so as to be successful in their various callings.
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry Mr. Bitrus Bako Nabasu, said “Open Science” is a burning issue in the non-scientific community, which is gaining increasing attention by the non-scientific community as well.
He called on the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization, (UNESCO) to pay a crucial role in raising awareness and leading the global dialogue on open science thereby ensuring scientist meet their potential in bridging the world science technology and innovation.