Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ibrahim Ramalan
Published on 2024-03-28 04:16:29
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is making significant strides in uplifting Nigerians out of poverty through technology transfer and various programs. According to the Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Halilu, NASENI aims to lift 2.5 million Nigerians out of poverty within the next five years. This initiative includes reducing the import bill by 25% to $37.4 billion by 2030 through partnerships that promote the local manufacturing of the top 10 highly demanded items.
In addition to poverty alleviation, NASENI projects the creation of over three million jobs by 2030 through technology knowledge transfer to 300,000 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The organization also aims to increase imports to N53.6 trillion by 2030 through value addition and strategic partnerships with foreign markets. By facilitating access to technology and international markets, NASENI intends to transform Nigeria’s economy.
NASENI has been actively building the capacity of SMEs by partnering with them to produce 35 market products, including electric tricycles, laptops, phones, lithium batteries, solar home systems, and solar irrigation equipment. Three of these products have already been launched, showcasing the organization’s commitment to accelerating outcomes and addressing local needs through collaboration with local SMEs.
Furthermore, NASENI is collaborating with the Rural Electrification Agency to deploy renewable energy technologies, particularly solar resources, in rural communities to enhance electricity visibility and supply. This initiative is aimed at contributing to the sustainable development of the country and addressing power challenges by leveraging solar energy technology as an alternative power source.
In line with Nigeria’s efforts to meet the global energy transition, NASENI has signed an agreement with a Chinese firm to build a Lithium Iron plant worth $150 million. The organization is also working on reviving 55,000 broken-down tractors and converting them into cleaner energy sources like Compressed and Liquefied Natural Gas. Additionally, NASENI is reviving armored personnel carriers and abandoned weapons to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.
To promote gender equality and inclusion in the engineering sector, NASENI has launched a special fund scheme called Developing Engineering Leaders through Her (DELT-HER) to encourage women’s participation. The organization aims to address the low women inclusion rate in Nigeria’s engineering sector, which currently stands at only five percent compared to the global average of 28 percent.
As the only government agency with a statutory responsibility to intervene in all aspects of engineering, science, and infrastructure, NASENI plays a crucial role in driving technological innovation and economic development in Nigeria. Through its various initiatives and partnerships, NASENI is poised to make a significant impact on poverty alleviation, job creation, and sustainable development in the country.
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