Science and tech key to diversifying economy- minister ===============================The minister of science and Technology, Mr Ogbonnaya Onu, has said the economy of Nigeria cannot be diversified without the application of science technology and innovation.

The minister of Science and Technology, Mr. Ogbonnaya Onu, has said the economy of Nigeria cannot be diversified without the application of science, technology and innovation. Onu made the disclosure while welcoming the Taraba State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. Alhassan Hamman, in his office in Abuja. He said the application of science using both local and foreign technologies will help fast-track growth and diversification of the economy of the state, from its present mono-product economy. According to him, China and India moved out of their poverty levels to their present developed state using science, technology and innovation, adding that the mistake the country had made in the past was the neglect of science and technology in its development programmes. He said Federal Government in 2012 reviewed the 1976 science policy holistically to cater for the diverse natural endowments of the country using its research institutes as drivers in harnessing its rich mineral resources, adding that his ministry will collaborate with states’ ministries of science and technology to create jobs, develop the economy and increase the country’s revenue. In his remark, the commissioner said the science and technology ministry has realized the import of the sector to the overall development of the state. Hamman said he thought it expedient to visit the minister to seek for collaboration in all areas of assistance and support.