The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, delivered a keynote address at the 5th National Productivity Summit in Abuja, organized by the National Productivity Centre (NPC). Shettima highlighted the indispensable role of science and technology in propelling Nigeria’s advancement by cultivating a skilled workforce.
He accentuated the nation’s reservoir of talent, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s potential to achieve significant progress on the global stage through innovative endeavors.
Under the theme “Achieving Higher Productivity and National Development by Leveraging Science, Technology, and Innovation,” the summit aimed to harness these pillars for national growth.
Shettima commended President Bola Tinubu’s strategic initiatives, including innovative measures and partnerships with leading entities, to stimulate economic expansion and address longstanding developmental challenges.
In light of the impending fourth industrial revolution, VP Shettima urged the NPC to seize the moment for rejuvenation and international competitiveness by investing in cutting-edge technologies.
Represented by Rukaiya El-Rufia, the special adviser to the president on national economic council and climate change, Shettima tasked the NPC with tailoring solutions across diverse sectors to align with national aspirations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Emphasizing the imperative for Nigeria to foster an environment conducive to the flourishing of its talented youth in science and technology, Shettima urged organizations like the NPC to customize solutions across a wide spectrum of sectors, from biodiversity to space technology, in harmony with national objectives.
Moreover, Shettima underscored the transformative potential of emerging technologies in advancing Nigeria’s socioeconomic landscape, enabling the nation to leapfrog obstacles and fortify its economy.
Reflecting on the history of the National Productivity Summit since its inception in 1987, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, highlighted the pressing need to address Nigeria’s low productivity index, a persistent barrier to economic growth and poverty alleviation.
She underscored the importance of embracing science, technology, and innovation as essential tools for surmounting economic challenges and gaining a competitive edge in the global arena.
