COUNTRY PAPER:COUNTRY PAPER:SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (S&T) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (S&T) DEVELOPMENT POLICY IN NIGERIA DEVELOPMENT POLICY IN NIGERIA

BY OBASSI, ETTUBY OBASSI, ETTUSCIENTIFIC OFFICERSCIENTIFIC OFFICER

RAW MATERIALS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT RAW MATERIALS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL,COUNCIL,

RMRDC-NIGERIA RMRDC-NIGERIA ATAT

THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON S&T THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON S&T

POLICY RESEARCH AND STATISTICAL POLICY RESEARCH AND STATISTICAL INDICATORSINDICATORS

ININ

COLUMBO, SRI LANKACOLUMBO, SRI LANKA

8-10 NOVEMBER, 2006.8-10 NOVEMBER, 2006.

1)1) MAP OF NIGERIAMAP OF NIGERIA

2)2) BACKGROUNDBACKGROUND NIGERIA is a West African country, with a coast along NIGERIA is a West African country, with a coast along

the Atlantic Ocean on the Gulf of Guinea in the south, the Atlantic Ocean on the Gulf of Guinea in the south, Cameroon in East, Republic of Benin in the West, Cameroon in East, Republic of Benin in the West, Niger Republic and the Chad in the North . Most of Niger Republic and the Chad in the North . Most of Nigeria consists of a low plateau cut by rivers, Nigeria consists of a low plateau cut by rivers, especially the Niger and its largest tributary, the especially the Niger and its largest tributary, the Benue. The country takes its name from its chief Benue. The country takes its name from its chief river. ABUJA became the Federal Capital Territory river. ABUJA became the Federal Capital Territory in1991, government moved from Lagos to Abuja with in1991, government moved from Lagos to Abuja with the hope of creating a national capital where none of the hope of creating a national capital where none of the over 250 ethnic groups of the country would be the over 250 ethnic groups of the country would be dominant.dominant.

Nigeria long had an agricultural economy but now Nigeria long had an agricultural economy but now depends almost entirely on the production of depends almost entirely on the production of petroleum, which lies in large reserves below the petroleum, which lies in large reserves below the Niger Delta. Niger Delta.

Nigeria is by far the most populated of Africa’s Nigeria is by far the most populated of Africa’s countries, with more than one-seventh of the countries, with more than one-seventh of the continent’s people. The people belong to many continent’s people. The people belong to many different ethnic groups. These groups give the different ethnic groups. These groups give the country a rich culture, but they also pose major country a rich culture, but they also pose major challenges to nation building. Ethnic strife has challenges to nation building. Ethnic strife has plagued Nigeria since it gained independence in 1960plagued Nigeria since it gained independence in 1960

3)3) GENERAL INFORMATIONGENERAL INFORMATION1 OFFICIAL NAME Federal Republic of Nigeria

2 CAPITAL ABUJA - FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY [FCT]

3 INDEPENDENCE The country got her independence fro Britain in 1960

4 GOVERNMENT Federal Presidential System with 3 tiers of government; the Federal , the States[36] and the Local Government Areas [about 772].The Country operates bicameral legislation [ the Senate- upper house and the House of Representative –lower house

5 LAND MASS About 923,768 sq km (356,669 sq mi).

6 POPULATION In 2005 Nigeria’s estimated population was 128,771,988, yielding an average density of 141 persons per sq km (366 per sq mi).

7 OFFICIAL & OTHER LANGUAGES

English is common among educated people. About 400 native Nigerian languages have been identified. The most common of the native languages are Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo. Other major languages include Fulfulde, Kanuri, Ibibio, Tiv, Efik, Edo, Ijo, and Nupe.

8 ETHNICITY/ TRIBES Nigeria’s three largest ethnic groups—the Hausa-Fulani , Yoruba, and Igbo—represent about 70 percent of the population. About 10 percent of the total population consists of several other groups numbering more than 1 million members each, including the Kanuri, Tiv, and Ibibio. More than 300 smaller ethnic groups account for the remaining 20 percent of the population.

9 RELIGION  Christianity, Islam, or indigenous African religions is central to how Nigerians identify themselves. Recent estimates suggest that 46 percent are Christians, 44 percent are Muslims, and 10 percent adhere to traditional religions

10 CLIMATE/ VEGITATION Climate is tropical with sharp regional variances depending on rainfall. The seasons of the year are hot, dry, and often dust-laden air from the Sahara known locally as the harmattan.. Temperatures average from 25° to 28°C (77° to 82°F)., and in the Jos Plateau, temperatures average 22°C (72°F). Rainfall varies widely over short distances and from year to year. Parts of the coast along the Niger Delta, where the rainy season is year-round, receive more than 4,000 mm (160 in) of rain each year. Most of the country’s middle belt, rainy season starts in April or May and runs through September or October, receives from 1,000 to 1,500 mm (40 to 60 in).

11 LIFE EXPECTANCY 51.5 (2005 estimate)99 deaths per 1,000 live births (2005 estimate)

12 LITERACY 70.7 percent (2005 estimate)

4)4) THE FEDERAL MINSTRY THE FEDERAL MINSTRY OF SCIENCE &TECHNOLOGY, OF SCIENCE &TECHNOLOGY,

FMSTFMST• 4.14.1 Establishment:Establishment: FMST FMST was was

established as a full-fledged ministry established as a full-fledged ministry through Act No. 1 of January, 1980 through Act No. 1 of January, 1980 that saw the dissolution of the National that saw the dissolution of the National Science and technology Development Science and technology Development Agency (NSTDA) established by Decree Agency (NSTDA) established by Decree No. 5 of 1977,following the apparent No. 5 of 1977,following the apparent realization of the importance of S&T to realization of the importance of S&T to national development, with the national development, with the emergence of a new democratic emergence of a new democratic government in 1979.government in 1979.

4.2) THE MANDATES OF FMST:

The mandates are fashioned to cultivate durable S&T culture that would address current problems and future challenges covering areas of :

Formulation, monitoring and review of the national policy on S&T;Promotion and coordination of scientific and technological research;

Promotion and administration of technology acquisition, adaptation and transfer;Promotion and coordination of national production of scientific and technological goods and services;Promotion and coordination of development of scientific and technological infrastructures;Promotion and coordination of integrated, (i.e human infrastructural and institutional) scientific and technological capacity building ; andEstablishment and maintenance of relations with national and international, public and private scientific and technological organizations.

4.34.3 VISION & MISSIONVISION & MISSIONIn pursuance of these mandates and in order to articulate its service charter, FMST has formally In pursuance of these mandates and in order to articulate its service charter, FMST has formally

defined, and government has accepted the following vision and mission statements of the ministry.defined, and government has accepted the following vision and mission statements of the ministry.• VISION OF FMSTVISION OF FMST: The focal vision of the FMST is to make Nigeria, in the nearest future, an : The focal vision of the FMST is to make Nigeria, in the nearest future, an

acknowledged member of the fast developing scientific and technologically progressive nations of acknowledged member of the fast developing scientific and technologically progressive nations of the world and to be Africa’s leader in scientific and technological development.the world and to be Africa’s leader in scientific and technological development.

• MISSION OF FMST:MISSION OF FMST: The mission of the FMST is to chart a course of scientific and technological development of the nation through: The mission of the FMST is to chart a course of scientific and technological development of the nation through: - Planned and guided R&D in all areas of S&T;- Planned and guided R&D in all areas of S&T; - Keeping abreast with latest progress in R&D in science and technology among the industrial and educated communities within the country, sub-region and overseas;- Keeping abreast with latest progress in R&D in science and technology among the industrial and educated communities within the country, sub-region and overseas;

MISSION OF FMST:MISSION OF FMST: The mission of the The mission of the FMST is to chart a course of scientific FMST is to chart a course of scientific and technological development of the and technological development of the nation through:nation through:

– Planned and guided R&D in all ares of S&T;Planned and guided R&D in all ares of S&T;– Keeping abreast with latest progress in R&D in Keeping abreast with latest progress in R&D in

science and technology among the industrial science and technology among the industrial and educated communities within the country, and educated communities within the country, sub-region and overseas;sub-region and overseas;

– Assuring that various R&D efforts of the public Assuring that various R&D efforts of the public S&T establishments fit in with overall S&T establishments fit in with overall development plan of the nation;development plan of the nation;

– Linkages of researchers and their Linkages of researchers and their establishments with entrepreneurs for establishments with entrepreneurs for commercialization of successful research commercialization of successful research results;results;

– Utilizing the facilities ofTechnology Incubation Utilizing the facilities ofTechnology Incubation (TI) and Science and Technology Parks (STP) to (TI) and Science and Technology Parks (STP) to nurtutre new projects especially in the areas of nurtutre new projects especially in the areas of national priority;national priority;

– Promotion of projects that are strategic to the Promotion of projects that are strategic to the cause of aggregate national development; andcause of aggregate national development; and

– Advising government on S&T Policy matters.Advising government on S&T Policy matters.

WORKING DOCUMENTS:WORKING DOCUMENTS: In order to put In order to put each operational activity in its correct each operational activity in its correct perspective, the FMST produced the following perspective, the FMST produced the following working documents as standard guidelines and working documents as standard guidelines and operational tools;operational tools;

– National Policy on S&T;National Policy on S&T;– Strategic Plan (2003-2007);Strategic Plan (2003-2007);– A compendium of on-going projects in Research A compendium of on-going projects in Research

establishments under and out of the FMST; andestablishments under and out of the FMST; and– Profiles of selected commercializable R&D Profiles of selected commercializable R&D

results.The mission of the FMST is to chart a results.The mission of the FMST is to chart a course of scientific and technological course of scientific and technological development of the nation through:development of the nation through:

4.44.4 AGENCIES & PARASTALS UNDER FMST & AGENCIES & PARASTALS UNDER FMST & THEIR MANDATESTHEIR MANDATES

S/N. PARASTATALS MANDATE

1 Federal institute of industrial research (FIIRO), Oshodi, Lagos.

Research and development into food processing, agro-allied, textiles, pulp and paper, design and fabrication of prototypes, micro-electronic and information services.

2 National Office for Technology Acquisition and promotion To encourage a more effective process for the identification and selection of foreign technology as well as vet, register and monitor contract agreements for the acquisition off foreign technologies by Nigeria Local patents registration.

3 Raw Materials research and Development Council (RMRDC) Abuja.

Promote, support and expedite industrial development and self-reliance through optimal utilization of local raw materials as inputs for the nations’ industries.

4 Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) Research into the use of local materials and methods in road and building construction.

5 National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Abuja.

Pursue the development and application of space science and technology by developing indigenous capabilities for research and development to boost socio-economic potential of the nation.

6 Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Abuja.

To embarks on the development of the science and engineering materials complexes for the production of basic tools and science and engineering materials.

7 National Agency for Science and Engineering infrastructure (NASENI)

To embarks on research and development of science and engineering materials complexes for the production of basic tools and science and engineering materials.

8 National Informational technology Development Agency (NITDA),

To ensure the implementation of the national information Technology (IT) policy and to coordinate and regulate the information technology sector.

9 National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), Ibandan

To undertake development research, data gathering and dissemination of technological information on matters relating to genetic resource utilization, genetic engineering and biotechnology.

10 Regional programme for Technology Management (REPTEEM), Lagos

To embark on research and development of management of science and technology resources in the west Africa Sub region.

11 National Centre for Technology To train and carry out research in technology

Management (NACETEM), IIe-ife Management and developing high-level manpower in science and technology policy formulation.

12 Nigerian institute for Trypanosomiasis Research (NITR), Kaduna.

Research into Trrypanosomiasis and onchoercaisis generally, especially the pathology, immunology and methods of treatment of the diseases.

13 Federal College of Chemical and leather Technology (CHELTECH), Zaria.

To train middle-level manpower in all aspects of chemical and leather technology.

14 Nigerian Natural medicine Development Agency (NNMDA). Lagos.

Initiate policy and improve the knowledge on the practice and potential of natural medicine with a view to fully developing and integrating it into the National Health Care delivery system.

15 Project Development Institute (PRODA), Enugu. Research into engineering, design and fabrication, ceramic products, electrical and electronic products and energy including coal and scientific equipment.

16 National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT), Zaria.

Carry out research and development work into processes for the conversion of solid minerals, petroleum and agricultural raw materials into useful industrial chemicals, petrochemicals and polymers

17 Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Abuja. To conduct research and to develop energy facilities for Nigeria, for ensuring adequate supply of energy at affordable cost and to enhance at affordable our national security.

18 Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NNISLT), Ibadan.

To advance science laboratory technology profession in Nigeria.

19 Technology Incubation Programme Nationwide. Designed to nature new start-up businesses that engage in science and technology based activities through the establishment of technology business incubation (TBI) centers

20 National biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Abuja.

. To empower the nation to become self-reliant in the development and application biotechnology-based products and services

4.44.4 SOME EFFORTS OF FMST TOWARDS SOME EFFORTS OF FMST TOWARDS PROMOTING/SUPPORTING S&T PROMOTING/SUPPORTING S&T

DEVELOPMENTDEVELOPMENT• Launching of an earth observation microsatellite code named Launching of an earth observation microsatellite code named

Nigeria Sat 1 on 27th Sept, 2003- the first national low orbit Nigeria Sat 1 on 27th Sept, 2003- the first national low orbit remote sensing satellite to be built by a sub-saharan African remote sensing satellite to be built by a sub-saharan African country. The lauching of Sat 1 at Plesetk, Russia represents country. The lauching of Sat 1 at Plesetk, Russia represents the hunble beginning of our goal, highlights of which include:the hunble beginning of our goal, highlights of which include:

– Capacity acquisition for a number of scientists and Capacity acquisition for a number of scientists and engineers involved in the design, building of all subsystems engineers involved in the design, building of all subsystems of Nigerian Sat 1of Nigerian Sat 1

– Establishment of skilled space scientists for Nigerian space Establishment of skilled space scientists for Nigerian space capacity for building subsequent generations of satellites capacity for building subsequent generations of satellites by ourselves. E.g Nigeria Sat 2 – a communication satellite by ourselves. E.g Nigeria Sat 2 – a communication satellite whose work has reached advanced stage for launch early whose work has reached advanced stage for launch early part of 2007.part of 2007.

– Membership of an international Disaster Monitoring Membership of an international Disaster Monitoring Constellation (DMC) comprising UK, Nigeria, China, Constellation (DMC) comprising UK, Nigeria, China, Algeria,Vetnam. Membership enables Nigeria to receive Algeria,Vetnam. Membership enables Nigeria to receive daily images from DMC dynamic remote sensing activities; daily images from DMC dynamic remote sensing activities; andand

– Availability of real time data from daily revisit of scenes Availability of real time data from daily revisit of scenes through DMC partnership to map and monitor through DMC partnership to map and monitor environmental problems around the world. Data odtained environmental problems around the world. Data odtained can be applied to agricultural and environmental studies, can be applied to agricultural and environmental studies, National Geographic Information System (NGIS), National Geographic Information System (NGIS), monitoring of oil and gas pipelines, mineralization monitoring of oil and gas pipelines, mineralization mappingmapping settlements for national census etc settlements for national census etc

ACTIVITIES CONTD.ACTIVITIES CONTD.• Launching of mobile internet unit (MIU)- The unit is Launching of mobile internet unit (MIU)- The unit is

locally assembled in25 seater bus that has locally assembled in25 seater bus that has beencoverted into a mbile IT training and cyber beencoverted into a mbile IT training and cyber centre. It is equipped with internet acces VSAT, centre. It is equipped with internet acces VSAT, printers, photocopier and media facilities. The printers, photocopier and media facilities. The assemblage was built at a cost 25% of its impoerted assemblage was built at a cost 25% of its impoerted version and over 9,500 youths and adults have version and over 9,500 youths and adults have benefited fron the services of the units. It is an benefited fron the services of the units. It is an essential tool for computer training/education, essential tool for computer training/education, community info-base centre, development of community info-base centre, development of healthcare delivery etc in the remote areas of our 3rd healthcare delivery etc in the remote areas of our 3rd tier of government (local govt areas LGAs).tier of government (local govt areas LGAs).

• The redelegation of the .ng top domain for Nigeria to The redelegation of the .ng top domain for Nigeria to the Director Genera/CEO of National Information the Director Genera/CEO of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) from Mrs. Technology Development Agency (NITDA) from Mrs. Odusote who invented and reistered the .ngtld for Odusote who invented and reistered the .ngtld for Nigeria in 1995.Nigeria in 1995.

• The centralization of software purchase and The centralization of software purchase and application in Nigeria through Software licensing application in Nigeria through Software licensing agreement between Microsoft corporation.The agreement between Microsoft corporation.The package involved personel traing andsupply of pcs.package involved personel traing andsupply of pcs.

ACTIVITIES CONTD.ACTIVITIES CONTD.• Launching of e-government and public service Launching of e-government and public service

network. Nigeria’s ICT policy has been widely network. Nigeria’s ICT policy has been widely acknowledged as laudable by countries in the sub –acknowledged as laudable by countries in the sub –region. The policy was approved in 2001, following region. The policy was approved in 2001, following which NITDA was established. Federal ministries and which NITDA was established. Federal ministries and agencies have been provided standard domain names agencies have been provided standard domain names and websites and establishment of LAN/WAN between and websites and establishment of LAN/WAN between them and NITDA.them and NITDA.

• Commercialization of R&D results in cassava-wheat Commercialization of R&D results in cassava-wheat flour composite with 10% cassava flour developed by flour composite with 10% cassava flour developed by FIIRO, Ceramic porcelain Insulators by PRODA for FIIRO, Ceramic porcelain Insulators by PRODA for which already exist domestic manufacturers to supply which already exist domestic manufacturers to supply National Power Outfit PHC, Neem processing plant by National Power Outfit PHC, Neem processing plant by NARICT with great industrial potentials for NARICT with great industrial potentials for pharmaceutical, bio-insecticidespharmaceutical, bio-insecticides

• Establishment of National R&D Coordinationa council Establishment of National R&D Coordinationa council (NRDCC) to be chaired by Mr. President(NRDCC) to be chaired by Mr. President

• Reform of National S&T and Inovation SystemReform of National S&T and Inovation System , etc , etc

5)5) STATUS OF S&T POLICY STATUS OF S&T POLICY DEVELOPMENTDEVELOPMENT

• Major Historical Development of S&T in Major Historical Development of S&T in Nigeria:- Nigeria:-

Nigeria has an inherited colonial science Nigeria has an inherited colonial science structure focused on the exploitation of tropical structure focused on the exploitation of tropical products and mineral deposits together with products and mineral deposits together with sustainable management of agricultural sustainable management of agricultural production. Historical record predates the production. Historical record predates the establishment of the first sets of research establishment of the first sets of research institutes in Nigeria during the colonial rules. The institutes in Nigeria during the colonial rules. The essence then was to boost output to adequately essence then was to boost output to adequately supply the much needed raw materials for supply the much needed raw materials for industries in Europe. Most of the research industries in Europe. Most of the research institutes established became full-flegded institutes established became full-flegded national institutes in Nigeria after independence.national institutes in Nigeria after independence.

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Contd.HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Contd.

• Following the international conference on Following the international conference on the organisation of Resaerch and Training the organisation of Resaerch and Training in Africa in 1964, Nigeria established a in Africa in 1964, Nigeria established a National Council for Scientific and National Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (NCSIR) by decree Industrial Research (NCSIR) by decree No.83 of 1966. The Council was expected to No.83 of 1966. The Council was expected to act as an advisory body to the government act as an advisory body to the government and as such, lacked executive powers and as such, lacked executive powers (Aluko- Olokun, 1999). Its mandate was (Aluko- Olokun, 1999). Its mandate was quite narrow and therefore had structural quite narrow and therefore had structural weakness that prevented it from weakness that prevented it from functioning efficiently. The real functioning efficiently. The real consciousness of the development of consciousness of the development of science and technology in Nigeria came science and technology in Nigeria came into force after the Civil war in1970.into force after the Civil war in1970.

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Contd.HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Contd.

• Federal organs for Science and Technology Federal organs for Science and Technology (S&T) administration in Nigeria were set up (S&T) administration in Nigeria were set up at the end of the civil war (1966-1970) by at the end of the civil war (1966-1970) by decree No.6 of 1970 establishing the decree No.6 of 1970 establishing the Nigerian Council for S&T (NCST), based on Nigerian Council for S&T (NCST), based on the report by UNESCO expert, Dr. N. R. the report by UNESCO expert, Dr. N. R. Martin entitled – NIGERIA: The Science Martin entitled – NIGERIA: The Science Policy Machinery, July- Sept 1966, Paris, Policy Machinery, July- Sept 1966, Paris, UNESCO, and had four sectoral research UNESCO, and had four sectoral research Councils viz: Councils viz: Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria ,ARCN, Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria ,ARCN, Medical Research Council of Nigeria, MRCN, Medical Research Council of Nigeria, MRCN, Natural Sciences Research Council of Nigeria, Natural Sciences Research Council of Nigeria,

NSRCN andNSRCN and Industrial Research Council of Nigeria, IRCN,.Industrial Research Council of Nigeria, IRCN,.

Historical Dev. Contd.Historical Dev. Contd.

• In 1974, UNESCO organised the first regional In 1974, UNESCO organised the first regional ministerial conference on S&T development in ministerial conference on S&T development in Africa called CASTAFRICA I which was held in Africa called CASTAFRICA I which was held in Dakar, Senegal (Khalil, 2002). The conference Dakar, Senegal (Khalil, 2002). The conference identified and recommended among other issues, identified and recommended among other issues, the need for African Countries to formulate their the need for African Countries to formulate their S&T policy to guide national development, S&T policy to guide national development, especially rural and industrial development.especially rural and industrial development.

• In 1976, the government of Nigeria, in pursuance In 1976, the government of Nigeria, in pursuance of its commitment to the resolution reached at of its commitment to the resolution reached at the the first regional conference, set up an S&T the the first regional conference, set up an S&T policy committee which recommended two policy policy committee which recommended two policy options:options:The establishment of an executive agency to The establishment of an executive agency to

coordinate S&T policy; orcoordinate S&T policy; orThe establishment of Ministry of Science and The establishment of Ministry of Science and

Technology with all Research Institutes under Technology with all Research Institutes under it.it.

Historical Dev. in S&T Historical Dev. in S&T contd.contd.

• Selection of the first option led to the Selection of the first option led to the establishment of National Science and establishment of National Science and Technology Agency (NSTDA) by decree No. 5 Technology Agency (NSTDA) by decree No. 5 of 1977 withall research institutes under it. of 1977 withall research institutes under it. The NSTDA had no Minister and was chaired The NSTDA had no Minister and was chaired by Chief of staff Sypreme Headquarters, Major by Chief of staff Sypreme Headquarters, Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (Animalu, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (Animalu, 2003). 2003).

• The search for an ideal S&T structure did not The search for an ideal S&T structure did not end with NSTDA, and hence the emergence in end with NSTDA, and hence the emergence in 1980 of a full-fledge FMST created by the 1980 of a full-fledge FMST created by the Civilian Adminstration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari Civilian Adminstration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari who also dissolved the NSTDA. An Economist, who also dissolved the NSTDA. An Economist, Dr Sylvester Ugoh became the first Honourable Dr Sylvester Ugoh became the first Honourable Minister of, and was later replaced by Mr. Minister of, and was later replaced by Mr. Ademola Thomas and Dr. M. Bode Ademola Thomas and Dr. M. Bode Olowoporoku during the cabinate reshuffle in Olowoporoku during the cabinate reshuffle in 1982 and 1983 respectively.1982 and 1983 respectively.

SUMMARY MAJOR HISTORICAL SUMMARY MAJOR HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF S&T IN NIGERIADEVELOPMENT OF S&T IN NIGERIA

The ministers in Nigeria welds enormous The ministers in Nigeria welds enormous executive powers by their appointment by executive powers by their appointment by the President, and as a result, their the President, and as a result, their performance or non-performance is performance or non-performance is unfortunately tied to what they can unfortunately tied to what they can achieve, not minding the inherited achieve, not minding the inherited colonial structure met on ground.colonial structure met on ground.

• 1966 – Establishment of National Council 1966 – Establishment of National Council for Scientific Industrial Research for Scientific Industrial Research (NSCSIR) , (NSCSIR) , based on the report by based on the report by UNESCO expert, Dr. N. R. Martin entitled UNESCO expert, Dr. N. R. Martin entitled – NIGERIA: The Science Policy Machinery, – NIGERIA: The Science Policy Machinery, July- Sept 1966, Paris, UNESCOJuly- Sept 1966, Paris, UNESCO . .

SUMMARY MAJOR HISTORICAL SUMMARY MAJOR HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF S&T IN NIGERIADEVELOPMENT OF S&T IN NIGERIA

• 1970 – 1st real Federal Organ for Science and 1970 – 1st real Federal Organ for Science and Technology administration –Nigerian Council for Technology administration –Nigerian Council for Science and Technology, NCST with 4 research Science and Technology, NCST with 4 research councils viz: ARCN, MRCN, NSRCN and IRCN.councils viz: ARCN, MRCN, NSRCN and IRCN.

• 1976 – Following 1976 – Following the first regional ministerial the first regional ministerial conference on S&T development in Africa called conference on S&T development in Africa called CASTAFRICA I and organized by UNESCO in CASTAFRICA I and organized by UNESCO in 1974 which was held in Dakar, Senegal (Khalil, 1974 which was held in Dakar, Senegal (Khalil, 2002).,the conference identified and 2002).,the conference identified and recommended among other issues, the need for recommended among other issues, the need for African Countries to formulate their S&T policy African Countries to formulate their S&T policy to guide national development, especially rural to guide national development, especially rural and industrial development. The need for all in and industrial development. The need for all in charge S&T body re-emmerged.charge S&T body re-emmerged.

• 1977 – Formation of NSTDA1977 – Formation of NSTDA• 1980 – Formation of FMST1980 – Formation of FMST

SUMMARY Contd.SUMMARY Contd.• Ministers: Ministers:

– -1980 .Dr Sylvester Ugoh – Economist-1980 .Dr Sylvester Ugoh – Economist– 1982 Replaced by Mr Ademola Thomas1982 Replaced by Mr Ademola Thomas– 1983 Replaced by Dr. Bode Olowoporoku1983 Replaced by Dr. Bode Olowoporoku– 1982 FMST phased out and domicile in Fed Min. Of Educ.1982 FMST phased out and domicile in Fed Min. Of Educ.– 1986 FMST restored with Prof Emevon as Minister, Under 1986 FMST restored with Prof Emevon as Minister, Under

him we developed the Ist National Policy on S&Thim we developed the Ist National Policy on S&T– 1989 Came Prof. G.O. Ezekwe who fashioned out NASENI 1989 Came Prof. G.O. Ezekwe who fashioned out NASENI

as missing link in the policy and also introduced Risk as missing link in the policy and also introduced Risk Fund and Launched NSTF that never really took off .Fund and Launched NSTF that never really took off .

– 1993 (Aug- Nov) Professor Bath Nnaji, a robotic Engineer.1993 (Aug- Nov) Professor Bath Nnaji, a robotic Engineer.– 1993 Dr Laz Onaogu came with RAPID Project(Research 1993 Dr Laz Onaogu came with RAPID Project(Research

Adaptation & Products for Ind Dev) produced the Adaptation & Products for Ind Dev) produced the mandates.mandates.

– 1994 Army return with Gen Momah1994 Army return with Gen Momah– 1998 Chief Ebitimi BaNIGO.1998 Chief Ebitimi BaNIGO.– 1999 Till date Prof T. Isuon Review the first National S&T 1999 Till date Prof T. Isuon Review the first National S&T

policy, launch the disaster monitoring satellite, and again policy, launch the disaster monitoring satellite, and again produced most of the working documents.produced most of the working documents.

– 2003 Full review of the S&T 2003 policy.2003 Full review of the S&T 2003 policy.

THE S&T POLICIESTHE S&T POLICIES• THE 1986 S&T POLICYTHE 1986 S&T POLICY: The guidelines of the 1986 : The guidelines of the 1986

S&T policy recognized the fact that scientists and S&T policy recognized the fact that scientists and technologists in Nigeria had over the years engaged in technologists in Nigeria had over the years engaged in their work without well defined national direction their work without well defined national direction (FMST, 1986). Researches were carried ou without (FMST, 1986). Researches were carried ou without much effort made towards commercialization, apart much effort made towards commercialization, apart from publishing them in journals. Also , entrepreneurs from publishing them in journals. Also , entrepreneurs were averse to risk and as such, were not willing to were averse to risk and as such, were not willing to commercialise viable research findings. commercialise viable research findings. The national The national objectives in 1986 as captured in the fourth objectives in 1986 as captured in the fourth development plan include among others, the development plan include among others, the achievement of self reliance through:achievement of self reliance through:– acquiring enough technical know-how, skills and acquiring enough technical know-how, skills and

materials to defend the integrity and security of materials to defend the integrity and security of the nation; the nation;

– being technically self-reliant in the production being technically self-reliant in the production of capital and consumer goods and raw of capital and consumer goods and raw materials; and materials; and

– maintaining a flourishing national export maintaining a flourishing national export capability of goods and services.capability of goods and services.

SECTORIAL OUT LOOKSECTORIAL OUT LOOK• The document addressed the following key sectors of national The document addressed the following key sectors of national

life:life:• Educational System- emphases of science at all level;Educational System- emphases of science at all level;• Mass Movement – stipulates mass movement for S&TMass Movement – stipulates mass movement for S&T• Motivation for individuals engaged in S&T projects to Motivation for individuals engaged in S&T projects to

include special incentive and/or remunerations;include special incentive and/or remunerations;• Capital Goods – thepolicy encourage the production of Capital Goods – thepolicy encourage the production of

machinery and spare parts based on local inputs;machinery and spare parts based on local inputs;• Materials – the policy state the exploitation, processing Materials – the policy state the exploitation, processing

and utilization of the nationads material resources to and utilization of the nationads material resources to enhance self reliance and exportenhance self reliance and export

• Energy to be developed, protected and optimally Energy to be developed, protected and optimally harnessed in the overall interest of the nation;harnessed in the overall interest of the nation;

• Technology – advantage to be taken of technology in all Technology – advantage to be taken of technology in all aspects of day- to- day activitiesaspects of day- to- day activities

• Others are :Military Science, Environment, International Others are :Military Science, Environment, International Exchange and cooperation in S&T, National System of Exchange and cooperation in S&T, National System of S&T (then NCST), Financing S&T, Research, S&T (then NCST), Financing S&T, Research, Development, Application and Marketing.Development, Application and Marketing.

• Within the life span of this policy, achievements were recorded Within the life span of this policy, achievements were recorded in many aspects of agriculture. But generally the policy lacked in many aspects of agriculture. But generally the policy lacked effective implementation mechanism as well as evaluation and effective implementation mechanism as well as evaluation and monitoring strategies.monitoring strategies.

1999 S&T POLICY1999 S&T POLICY• A revised national policy on S&T was prepared in 1999 A revised national policy on S&T was prepared in 1999

for a year 25-year time frame with revision at 5-year for a year 25-year time frame with revision at 5-year intervals. It emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to the intervals. It emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to the creation of an independent, integrated and self-creation of an independent, integrated and self-sustaining economy, with the National policy itself sustaining economy, with the National policy itself being the framework for the effort towards the being the framework for the effort towards the fulfillment of that commitment. Key guideline were: fulfillment of that commitment. Key guideline were: S&T should provide the basis for national development; S&T should provide the basis for national development; Policies should take account of the country’s economic Policies should take account of the country’s economic situation and cultural milieu; manpower should be situation and cultural milieu; manpower should be developed to provide capability for utilization of developed to provide capability for utilization of natural resources; and socio-politicalnatural resources; and socio-political system should system should reflectreflect the prime position of S&T . Sixteen sectors of the prime position of S&T . Sixteen sectors of the economy area identified as strongly reliant on S&T the economy area identified as strongly reliant on S&T and the policy extends to the structural issues such as and the policy extends to the structural issues such as capacity building, popularization and international capacity building, popularization and international collaboration. Specific policies have as a result, been collaboration. Specific policies have as a result, been drafted for biotechnology, space research and IT, with drafted for biotechnology, space research and IT, with others in preparation others in preparation

THE 2003 S&T POLICY:THE 2003 S&T POLICY:• THE 2003 S&T POLICY: THE 2003 S&T POLICY: The FMST in realizing the The FMST in realizing the

changing global policy on S&T and the emerging changing global policy on S&T and the emerging frontiers of knowledge, embarked on the review of the frontiers of knowledge, embarked on the review of the 1986 S&T policy. The new policy was articulated to:1986 S&T policy. The new policy was articulated to:

• Stimulate initiative and creativity of the S&T Stimulate initiative and creativity of the S&T community while establishing strong link between their community while establishing strong link between their works and requirements of the economy, educational works and requirements of the economy, educational system and society at largesystem and society at large..

• Encourage the mobility of scientists and researchers to Encourage the mobility of scientists and researchers to network and explore the best opportunities and network and explore the best opportunities and alternatives in the country and abroad for use and alternatives in the country and abroad for use and improvement of their competence.improvement of their competence.

• Increase the share of the productive sector in the Increase the share of the productive sector in the national effort for scientific and technological national effort for scientific and technological development especially in the private productive development especially in the private productive sector.sector.

• Building strong indigenous competence in order to Building strong indigenous competence in order to participate as equal in international negotiations in the participate as equal in international negotiations in the areas such as protection of intellectual property and areas such as protection of intellectual property and rights of access to information, biotechnology and rights of access to information, biotechnology and biosafety, environmental control and the establishment biosafety, environmental control and the establishment of technical standard in international communication of technical standard in international communication networks.networks.

• The new policy expanded the frontiers of The new policy expanded the frontiers of S&T as contained in the 1986 policy S&T as contained in the 1986 policy document by identifying three core areas document by identifying three core areas where capabilities should be built These where capabilities should be built These include information and communication include information and communication technology (ICT), biotechnology, and Space technology (ICT), biotechnology, and Space technology. Other areas such as linkage of technology. Other areas such as linkage of University/Research institute / Industry, University/Research institute / Industry, Capacity building and technology transfer, Capacity building and technology transfer, by multinational companies, Energy by multinational companies, Energy research,, Cooperation on implementation research,, Cooperation on implementation and funding of R&D, Empowering SMEs and funding of R&D, Empowering SMEs through appropriate technology, Traditional through appropriate technology, Traditional Medicine Development, S&T Data Bank, Medicine Development, S&T Data Bank, Engineering materials development etc.Engineering materials development etc.

IMPLEMENTATION AND EXPERIENCES.IMPLEMENTATION AND EXPERIENCES.

• Apart from the checkered history of evolution of S/T in Apart from the checkered history of evolution of S/T in Nigeria, which is also applicable to the implementation, a Nigeria, which is also applicable to the implementation, a major constraint on the implementation of science based major constraint on the implementation of science based development has been funding and lack of continuity or development has been funding and lack of continuity or consistency. Nigeria, until the past few year used to spend consistency. Nigeria, until the past few year used to spend far less than the one percent of GDP advocated by African far less than the one percent of GDP advocated by African Union [AU] on R/D. Also, every new government in the Union [AU] on R/D. Also, every new government in the country with the ever changing Ministers of S/T have country with the ever changing Ministers of S/T have tended to start something new, without recourse to some tended to start something new, without recourse to some of the lofty projects of their predecessors.of the lofty projects of their predecessors.

• In the recent past, for any project to be funded by the In the recent past, for any project to be funded by the military or political class in government, it must meet the military or political class in government, it must meet the following criteria before it can pass through the screening following criteria before it can pass through the screening by the Council of Ministers;by the Council of Ministers;

• Is the project in national rolling plan?Is the project in national rolling plan?• Who is to execute it?Who is to execute it?• Will it pay for itself?Will it pay for itself?• Can it wait?Can it wait?• What is the cost/benefit profile?What is the cost/benefit profile?• Who will benefit from it?Who will benefit from it?

• It is difficult for R/D projects in science and It is difficult for R/D projects in science and technology to meet these political and technology to meet these political and economic criteria without being integrated into economic criteria without being integrated into the full plan perspective cycle. This lack of the full plan perspective cycle. This lack of integration apparently explains why integration apparently explains why government funding of R/D projects in S/T has government funding of R/D projects in S/T has been grossly inadequate till date in the been grossly inadequate till date in the Country, though one needs to commend the Country, though one needs to commend the steps taken already be present President steps taken already be present President Obasanjo regime to move the S&T out of the Obasanjo regime to move the S&T out of the seeming vicious cycle.seeming vicious cycle.

• In a science-based development, the actual In a science-based development, the actual operation of S/T transformation requires an operation of S/T transformation requires an operational flow chart that satisfies a different operational flow chart that satisfies a different set of criteria;set of criteria;

• What project must be done?What project must be done?• When?; where?; How?; By whom?When?; where?; How?; By whom?• With what available resource inventory?With what available resource inventory?

IMPLEMENTATION Contd.IMPLEMENTATION Contd.

• These criteria emphasize scientific and technological These criteria emphasize scientific and technological capacity building for national self reliance as well as the capacity building for national self reliance as well as the relevance and technical feasibility of a project. This relevance and technical feasibility of a project. This underscores the importance of political stability, underscores the importance of political stability, economic strength, sustainability etc for any long – range economic strength, sustainability etc for any long – range development plan of the type which newly industrialized development plan of the type which newly industrialized countries have applied for sustainability and to achieve to countries have applied for sustainability and to achieve to desired goal of self reliance. It is also imperative to find desired goal of self reliance. It is also imperative to find common ground that meets the two sets of criteria common ground that meets the two sets of criteria outlined above. It is frequently said that ‘policy should be outlined above. It is frequently said that ‘policy should be based on sound science.’based on sound science.’

• This is more easily said than done! In a system of This is more easily said than done! In a system of

representational democracy, with strong separation of representational democracy, with strong separation of powers, politics is inextricably connected with policy. This powers, politics is inextricably connected with policy. This is true for S&T as for any other area of human activity. is true for S&T as for any other area of human activity. We have in our society and those of many other nations, a We have in our society and those of many other nations, a complicated “three-body” problem. The three bodies are: complicated “three-body” problem. The three bodies are: Science (and Technology), Policy, and PoliticsScience (and Technology), Policy, and Politics with with forces between them which we cannot describe in any forces between them which we cannot describe in any simple way. (simple way. (See diagram fig 4 belowSee diagram fig 4 below}}

THE “THREE- BODY” PROBLEMTHE “THREE- BODY” PROBLEM

SCIENCE &TECHNOLOGY

POLICY

POLITICS

Executive

Legislative

Judiciary

7)7) FUNDING FUNDING • FUNDING S&T:FUNDING S&T: A comparism of S&T funding rates in Nigeria and A comparism of S&T funding rates in Nigeria and

other countries since the creation of FMST is summarized in the other countries since the creation of FMST is summarized in the table below.(Taken from G.O. Ezekwe’s Memorandum to the table below.(Taken from G.O. Ezekwe’s Memorandum to the National Constitutional Conference, entitled : A Constitutional National Constitutional Conference, entitled : A Constitutional Provision for Science, Engineering and Technology Development – Provision for Science, Engineering and Technology Development – February 1994).Nigeria has considerable human potential. It February 1994).Nigeria has considerable human potential. It counts 60 universities, 44 polytechnics and 65 research institutes counts 60 universities, 44 polytechnics and 65 research institutes where researches are carried out. Currently in the country, funding where researches are carried out. Currently in the country, funding in Research, Technology Development and Innovation (RTDI) in Research, Technology Development and Innovation (RTDI) landscape is principally from thr Federal Government, with landscape is principally from thr Federal Government, with institutes normally funded through their supervisory ministry. institutes normally funded through their supervisory ministry.

• An exception is the Raw Materials Research and Development An exception is the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, RMRDC which is funded through 1% import surcharge on Council, RMRDC which is funded through 1% import surcharge on capital goods, spare parts and raw materials. capital goods, spare parts and raw materials.

• Universities are supported through the National Universities Universities are supported through the National Universities Commission. Commercial production arising from S&T is financed Commission. Commercial production arising from S&T is financed by the Nigerian Bank Of Industry, venture capital and the Nigerian by the Nigerian Bank Of Industry, venture capital and the Nigerian Bank fo Agriculure. Some money comes from multinationals. Bank fo Agriculure. Some money comes from multinationals. Support from international agencies has come from the Canadian Support from international agencies has come from the Canadian (IDRC), UK’s DfID, USAID, etc. At present UNESCO is (IDRC), UK’s DfID, USAID, etc. At present UNESCO is collaborating in a project aimed at reform of the S&T system.collaborating in a project aimed at reform of the S&T system.

7)7) FUNDING FUNDING • Universities are supported through the Universities are supported through the

National Universities Commission. National Universities Commission. Commercial production arising from S&T is Commercial production arising from S&T is financed by the Nigerian Bank Of Industry, financed by the Nigerian Bank Of Industry, venture capital and the Nigerian Bank fo venture capital and the Nigerian Bank fo Agriculure. Some money comes from Agriculure. Some money comes from multinationals. Support from international multinationals. Support from international agencies has come from the Canadian (IDRC), agencies has come from the Canadian (IDRC), UK’s DfID, USAID, etc. At present UNESCO is UK’s DfID, USAID, etc. At present UNESCO is collaborating in a project aimed at reform of collaborating in a project aimed at reform of the S&T system.the S&T system.

• Research performance is by about 65 Research performance is by about 65 Research Institutes, about 60 Universities Research Institutes, about 60 Universities (made up of 25 Federal 24 State and about 10 (made up of 25 Federal 24 State and about 10 Private Universities, 44 Poly technics Private Universities, 44 Poly technics recognized as centres for R&D activities.recognized as centres for R&D activities.

SOME STATISTICS OF S&T IN NIGERIASOME STATISTICS OF S&T IN NIGERIA

COUNTRY FUNDING RATE % GDP/GNP

Nigeria 1980- 1992 0.1, rose to 1% in 2004 budget

O.A.U (now A.U.) guideline

1.0

Malaysia 0.6 – 1.0

Tanzania 1.5 - 3.5

Taiwan 1.35 – 2.25

India 2.0

S/Korea 2.0

U.K 2.3

Germany 2.8

U.S.A 2.8

Japan 2.8

Russia( former USSR)

5.0

MAIN SCIENTIFIC ORIENTATION OF S&T IN NIGERIA

1 Biological Sciences 3.7

2 Education & Information Sciences 4.3

3 Environmental Sciences 4.7

4 Earth Sciences 15.7

5 Agricultural Sciences(Showing greater prospect)

17.4

8 Exact Science and Technology 22.0

7 Medical Sciences 32.1

Source: Prof A . Animalu’s Education , S&T Agenda for the 21st CenturySource: Prof A . Animalu’s Education , S&T Agenda for the 21st Century

More statsMore stats

Population127.117 Million

AfDB/OECD 2005 Arican Economic outlook.

Gross national Income per Capita

$471 AfDB/OECD 2005 Arican Economic outlook,2004/2005

Literacy rate 69.4% African ICT Policy Monitor

TVs per 1000 people 68 ,,

Radios per 1000 people 200 ,,

Telephone mainlines per 1000 pers.

5 ,,

Mobile phones per 1000 people

4 ,,

Personal Computers per 1000 pers.

6.8 ,,

Internet users (thousands) 115 ,,

Book Production (total) 1314 Country profile ,UNESCO institute of statistics

Daily newpapers :Total avg circulation or copies per 1000 inhabitants

24.6 Country profile ,UNESCO institute of statistics

Researchers per 1,000 inhabitants 0.8

Expenditure on R&D as a % of GDP 1% in 2004

Pupil/ Teacher ratio(primary) 36

Pupil/Teacher ratio (Secondary) --

Expenditure on Education as % of GDP

Student enrolment in major S&T discipline (1998)

155,542

PROBLEMS AND PROBLEMS AND CHALLENGESCHALLENGES

• Apart from low funding of R&D, other major problems and Apart from low funding of R&D, other major problems and challenges include:challenges include:

• Poor state of S&T infrastructures in the country especially Poor state of S&T infrastructures in the country especially the level of deterioration before the coming of President the level of deterioration before the coming of President Obasanjo’ administration.Obasanjo’ administration.

• Problem of Univerity/Research Institute/Industry linkage Problem of Univerity/Research Institute/Industry linkage leading to poor commercialization of R&D results, while leading to poor commercialization of R&D results, while many unutilized results lie fallow in the universities and many unutilized results lie fallow in the universities and research institutes.research institutes.

• Brain-drain due to poor remuneration/ incentives to Brain-drain due to poor remuneration/ incentives to personnel involved in R&D.personnel involved in R&D.

• Inadequate Statistical data for planning.Inadequate Statistical data for planning.• Poor management and inadequate macro-level coordination Poor management and inadequate macro-level coordination • Problem of conducive environment (political stability) for Problem of conducive environment (political stability) for

private sector participationprivate sector participation• Lack of patronage for made-in-nigeria goods even when they Lack of patronage for made-in-nigeria goods even when they

exhibit high quality, leading to irrational importation.exhibit high quality, leading to irrational importation.• Poverty reduction and sustainable development dominates Poverty reduction and sustainable development dominates

economic strategy, but there is insufficient understanding of economic strategy, but there is insufficient understanding of the political leverage and the effect of RTDI on poverty the political leverage and the effect of RTDI on poverty alleviation & eradication and sustainable development.alleviation & eradication and sustainable development.

• STRENGTHSTRENGTH• Current growth in the economy to about 10% and the Current growth in the economy to about 10% and the

apparent stability in government since 1999.apparent stability in government since 1999.• Oil & Gas wealth providing about 95% foreign earningsOil & Gas wealth providing about 95% foreign earnings• Abundant Human resources in R&D and the current efforts Abundant Human resources in R&D and the current efforts

of government to tap from Nigerians in Diaspora.of government to tap from Nigerians in Diaspora.• Emergence of scientific and technological collaborations Emergence of scientific and technological collaborations

with new partners like China, India, Brazil, Japan, Malaysia, with new partners like China, India, Brazil, Japan, Malaysia, and currently NAM S&T, etcand currently NAM S&T, etc

• WEAKNESSWEAKNESS• Pervasive corruptionPervasive corruption• Inability to use productively oil wind fall to improve social Inability to use productively oil wind fall to improve social

conditioncondition• Strategic role of R&D may be recognizing formally by Strategic role of R&D may be recognizing formally by

government but it is no given priority in terms of tangible government but it is no given priority in terms of tangible policy measure and support.policy measure and support.

• Inability to attract the much need efforts of the private Inability to attract the much need efforts of the private sector in R&D. etcsector in R&D. etc

GOVERNMENT’S NEW ECONOMIC GOVERNMENT’S NEW ECONOMIC INITIATIVE AND S&T REFORMSINITIATIVE AND S&T REFORMS

• GLOBALIZATION:GLOBALIZATION: In this day and age, the gap between the In this day and age, the gap between the technologically wealthy countries and the technologically technologically wealthy countries and the technologically poor is quickly becoming a more difficult rift to breach than poor is quickly becoming a more difficult rift to breach than the economic gap. In fact, it has reached a point where the the economic gap. In fact, it has reached a point where the key to bridging the economic divide is the harnessing of key to bridging the economic divide is the harnessing of science and modern technology foe economic and social science and modern technology foe economic and social development.development.

• Based on this understanding, the present Govt of President Based on this understanding, the present Govt of President Obasanjo has placed great emphasis on the importance of the Obasanjo has placed great emphasis on the importance of the FMST, and charged it with the responsibility of coordinating FMST, and charged it with the responsibility of coordinating the disparate efforts of using S&T for development in a wide the disparate efforts of using S&T for development in a wide array of sectors such as : education, medicine, agriculture/ array of sectors such as : education, medicine, agriculture/ biotechnology, communication etc. Further to this and biotechnology, communication etc. Further to this and realizing the imperfections in our system and the need to realizing the imperfections in our system and the need to build a prosperous and strong nation, the President build a prosperous and strong nation, the President remarked in his inaugural speech of February, 2005 to remarked in his inaugural speech of February, 2005 to National Political Reform Conference that National Political Reform Conference that ‘Pluralism is the ‘Pluralism is the order of the day and globalization, technology, order of the day and globalization, technology, modernization politics of accommodation dictates that modernization politics of accommodation dictates that we must reject those ideas and argument that seek to we must reject those ideas and argument that seek to divide us and establish the interest of ethnic divide us and establish the interest of ethnic entrepreneurship as the sole interest of the people’entrepreneurship as the sole interest of the people’

Worldwide, indicators are devised for Worldwide, indicators are devised for signaling or monitoring, for accountability, for signaling or monitoring, for accountability, for legitimization and for awareness on S&T. Some legitimization and for awareness on S&T. Some these indicators currently available are:these indicators currently available are:

• --Research& Development (R&D)Research& Development (R&D) – measured – measured according to allocated expenditures and human according to allocated expenditures and human resource input;resource input;

• --Human Resource in S&T –Human Resource in S&T –measured in terms measured in terms of science education,and training according to of science education,and training according to levels and fields;levels and fields;

• --Innovation –Innovation – Very important indicator S&T Very important indicator S&T activities in a country in term of new findings;activities in a country in term of new findings;

• --Publications Publications – measure the level of production – measure the level of production & dissemination of S&T knowledge; and& dissemination of S&T knowledge; and

• --Patent –Patent –This measures the impact of S&T This measures the impact of S&T activities in a given socio-economic settingactivities in a given socio-economic setting

AFRICAN INITIATIVEAFRICAN INITIATIVE

• NEPAD is an acronym for New Partnership for NEPAD is an acronym for New Partnership for Africa’s Development. It is a collective resolve by Africa’s Development. It is a collective resolve by African leaders to pursue socio-economic African leaders to pursue socio-economic development that would be sustainable and bring development that would be sustainable and bring about peace and stability needed in some countries about peace and stability needed in some countries of Africa. It targets to leap-frog development to the of Africa. It targets to leap-frog development to the next level in Africa. It also is all embracive with next level in Africa. It also is all embracive with S&T contents. For example NEPAD’s research S&T contents. For example NEPAD’s research agenda has rekindled government’s interest in agenda has rekindled government’s interest in biotechnology, ICT, New and Advanced Materials biotechnology, ICT, New and Advanced Materials which is also embedded in the Nigerian S&T Policy. which is also embedded in the Nigerian S&T Policy. The National Biotecnology Development Agency The National Biotecnology Development Agency (NABDA), in Abuja has created six centres across (NABDA), in Abuja has created six centres across the six geopolitical zones with research activities the six geopolitical zones with research activities domiciled in universities in each of the zones.domiciled in universities in each of the zones.

• NEPAD recognizes the food crises of some NEPAD recognizes the food crises of some African countries and therefore also supports African countries and therefore also supports biotechnology through NGO Cooperation and biotechnology through NGO Cooperation and Comprehensive African Agricultural Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP). Development Programme (CAADP).

• Africa must now devise long-term strategies Africa must now devise long-term strategies to build capacity of the continent’s scientific to build capacity of the continent’s scientific infrastructure, and improve the conditions infrastructure, and improve the conditions for scientists by offering them adequate for scientists by offering them adequate salaries and reasonable career opportunities. salaries and reasonable career opportunities. R&D fund situation must need to be changed R&D fund situation must need to be changed for the better.for the better.

S&T REFORMS IN NIGERIAS&T REFORMS IN NIGERIA

• Prior to the political and economic crises in1985, Prior to the political and economic crises in1985, Nigeria was among the most successful countries Nigeria was among the most successful countries in terms of scientific production .The crisis had in terms of scientific production .The crisis had dramatic consequences for S&T establishments, dramatic consequences for S&T establishments, and by 2000, Nigeria had lost its leading position, and by 2000, Nigeria had lost its leading position, even though human resources were still available. even though human resources were still available. Future prospects were dim – there were no plans Future prospects were dim – there were no plans to activate the Nigerian Universities, and no to activate the Nigerian Universities, and no scientific policy could emerge and be committedly scientific policy could emerge and be committedly pursued to spur technological development. The pursued to spur technological development. The only means to halt the resulting brain drain would only means to halt the resulting brain drain would be to increase academic salaries.(Lebeau et be to increase academic salaries.(Lebeau et al.,2000).al.,2000).

• The coming of the Obasanjo administration has The coming of the Obasanjo administration has changed the tide for the better and is putting Nigeria changed the tide for the better and is putting Nigeria on course to reclaim its rightful position in African S&T on course to reclaim its rightful position in African S&T scheme of things. The government has brought back scheme of things. The government has brought back lost hopes for Nigeria to begin to fulfill its enormous lost hopes for Nigeria to begin to fulfill its enormous economic potentials. Agricultural production has economic potentials. Agricultural production has continued to expand, growing at estimated 7% in 2004 continued to expand, growing at estimated 7% in 2004 compared to 6.1 in 2003. So also is the real GDP compared to 6.1 in 2003. So also is the real GDP growth which picked up strongly to about 1110.7% in growth which picked up strongly to about 1110.7% in 2003. The Mining and quarry sector long neglected is 2003. The Mining and quarry sector long neglected is also showing tremendous growth, while the foreign also showing tremendous growth, while the foreign debt profile of $32.9 billion at the end of 2003 has debt profile of $32.9 billion at the end of 2003 has reverted to substantial foreign reserve following debt reverted to substantial foreign reserve following debt relief by the Paris Club in support of Nigeria’s relief by the Paris Club in support of Nigeria’s economic reforms.economic reforms.

• At the request of the Federal Government of Nigeria, At the request of the Federal Government of Nigeria, an international advisory boad for the reforms of the an international advisory boad for the reforms of the country’s science, technology and innovation system country’s science, technology and innovation system was established by UNESCO in October 2004.A core was established by UNESCO in October 2004.A core activity of the reform programme is a joint review of activity of the reform programme is a joint review of investment, industry and innovation in Nigeria investment, industry and innovation in Nigeria involving UNESCO, UNCTAD, UNIDO and WIPO. involving UNESCO, UNCTAD, UNIDO and WIPO. Finance in equal shares by the govt of Nigeria and Finance in equal shares by the govt of Nigeria and UNESCO/Japan Funds-in –Trust to the tune of UNESCO/Japan Funds-in –Trust to the tune of US$1million, the review in part of preparatory work US$1million, the review in part of preparatory work for the donors’ conference in Nigeria is planning to for the donors’ conference in Nigeria is planning to call to the fund implementation of a multi –year plan call to the fund implementation of a multi –year plan of action on science, technology and innovation. Other of action on science, technology and innovation. Other international agencies expected to join the reform international agencies expected to join the reform programme are the United Nations Economic programme are the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the World Bank and the Commission for Africa, the World Bank and the International Association of Universities.International Association of Universities.

• The President also recently announced the The President also recently announced the establishment of a National Science Foundation establishment of a National Science Foundation using the “windfall” generated by current high using the “windfall” generated by current high oil prices to diversify Nigeria’s economic oil prices to diversify Nigeria’s economic investment in science and technology. He investment in science and technology. He pledged the sum of US$5 billion endowment for pledged the sum of US$5 billion endowment for the project. The special fund in trust for the project. The special fund in trust for science will not only benefit Nigeria but also science will not only benefit Nigeria but also assist other African countries in designing assist other African countries in designing project proposals for the reform of their project proposals for the reform of their national science systems and development of national science systems and development of managerial capacities managerial capacities

• In June 2006, the Director General of UNESCO In June 2006, the Director General of UNESCO launched the Nigerian parliamentarian S&T forum in launched the Nigerian parliamentarian S&T forum in Abuja. Amongst other, regional policy fora was Abuja. Amongst other, regional policy fora was recommended for establishment to facilitate an recommended for establishment to facilitate an exchange of experiences and know-how in science, exchange of experiences and know-how in science, technology and innovation policy making, science technology and innovation policy making, science legislation and ethics; to strengthen partnerships legislation and ethics; to strengthen partnerships between legislators, scientist, the media, civil society, between legislators, scientist, the media, civil society, and public and private sectors in developing national and public and private sectors in developing national innovation system; to support capacity- building by innovation system; to support capacity- building by science parliamentary committees in emerging science parliamentary committees in emerging democracies.democracies.

• The country is equally investing in the development of The country is equally investing in the development of science and Technology Park in Abujascience and Technology Park in Abuja

• The country through the FMST has also reviewed the The country through the FMST has also reviewed the National S&T Policy which is currently implementing.National S&T Policy which is currently implementing.

• COLLABORATIONS: COLLABORATIONS: International co-operation is International co-operation is necessary to build our country’s human capacity and necessary to build our country’s human capacity and knowledge base in S&T. The free flow of ideas and knowledge base in S&T. The free flow of ideas and information, exchange of high level researchers, and information, exchange of high level researchers, and strategic intellectual alliances between individuals strategic intellectual alliances between individuals and institutions are also necessary to help us find and institutions are also necessary to help us find solutions to the developmental challenges both solutions to the developmental challenges both nationally and globally. With this in mind, Nigeria is nationally and globally. With this in mind, Nigeria is widely collaborating with national, private sector, widely collaborating with national, private sector, international organisations, NGOs etc to put her international organisations, NGOs etc to put her S&T in the desired shape. In the past bilateral donor S&T in the desired shape. In the past bilateral donor agencies, such as DFID(UK), DGIS(the Netherlands), agencies, such as DFID(UK), DGIS(the Netherlands), USAID, FOA, WB, Canada, UNESCO, UNIDO etc, USAID, FOA, WB, Canada, UNESCO, UNIDO etc, have supported substantial S&T programmes in have supported substantial S&T programmes in Africa for which Nigeria has also benefited. Today Africa for which Nigeria has also benefited. Today the list is growing with the NAM S&T, China etc.the list is growing with the NAM S&T, China etc.

CONCLUSION:CONCLUSION:• The need for the reform is patent after four decade of military rule The need for the reform is patent after four decade of military rule

marked by state corruption and spiraling foreign debt, following marked by state corruption and spiraling foreign debt, following independence in1960. The reward of the reform could also be independence in1960. The reward of the reform could also be immense, for Nigeria is potentially a wealthy country. The world’s immense, for Nigeria is potentially a wealthy country. The world’s 13th largest oil producer and the 6th largest in OPEC, Nigeria has 13th largest oil producer and the 6th largest in OPEC, Nigeria has enormous gas reserve which, when fully exploited will place her enormous gas reserve which, when fully exploited will place her among the world top ten gas producers. The reform comes at an among the world top ten gas producers. The reform comes at an auspicious time. After sluggish growth initially following the end of auspicious time. After sluggish growth initially following the end of military rule, GDP rose by nearly 10% in 2003, driven by strong oil military rule, GDP rose by nearly 10% in 2003, driven by strong oil receipts and agricultural growth of 7%. Public spending has climbed receipts and agricultural growth of 7%. Public spending has climbed markedly, from 19% of GDP in 1997 to 50% in 2001 (DFID). One aim markedly, from 19% of GDP in 1997 to 50% in 2001 (DFID). One aim of the science reform system will be to use this growth to diversify of the science reform system will be to use this growth to diversify Nigeria’s economy, in order to reduce dependence on fluctuating oil Nigeria’s economy, in order to reduce dependence on fluctuating oil prices, accounting for about 95% of foreign earning compared to prices, accounting for about 95% of foreign earning compared to 58% in1970 (UNDAF) 58% in1970 (UNDAF)

• Science and Technology are today more important than ever for Science and Technology are today more important than ever for Nigeria, if it is to raise the standards of living of its people, Nigeria, if it is to raise the standards of living of its people, consolidate a modern economy and participate as a significant consolidate a modern economy and participate as a significant partner in the global arena. This implies that the economy must be partner in the global arena. This implies that the economy must be modernized and made competitive. The efforts of the present modernized and made competitive. The efforts of the present government in privatization, S&T reforms with UNESCO, reform in government in privatization, S&T reforms with UNESCO, reform in the educational sector, and upgrade of facilities and infrastructures the educational sector, and upgrade of facilities and infrastructures in the Universities and research establishments etc are steps in the in the Universities and research establishments etc are steps in the right direction that require great level of sustainability. Nigeria must right direction that require great level of sustainability. Nigeria must be seen to be leading the way in putting together the right S&T be seen to be leading the way in putting together the right S&T policies and their implementation for most African nations to follow, policies and their implementation for most African nations to follow, considering all its enormous endowments. considering all its enormous endowments.

•THANK YOUTHANK YOU