Onwualu Calls for Stronger Science Communication to Drive National Development



By SILAS MEABE 


News;sports;Entertainment 

ABUJA-2026

The President of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Professor Engr. Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, FAS, has called for a stronger integration of science, technology and innovation (STI) communication into Nigeria’s national development agenda, stressing that scientific breakthroughs can only deliver impact when effectively communicated to policymakers, industry and the general public.

Professor Onwualu made this call while speaking with journalists during the 1st National Conference on Science, Technology and Innovation Communication, a landmark event that brought together key stakeholders from government, academia, research institutions and the private sector to deliberate on the role of effective communication in advancing innovation-led development.
According to him, Nigeria possesses immense scientific and technological capacity, but the country must bridge the persistent gap between research outcomes and real-world application through strategic and intentional science communication. He noted that researchers and institutions must go beyond publishing academic papers to ensuring that scientific knowledge is translated into policies, products and solutions that address national challenges.

He emphasized that effective STI communication would enhance public trust in science, stimulate youth interest in research and innovation, and accelerate the commercialization of locally developed technologies. Professor Onwualu also highlighted the need for collaboration among universities, research institutes, government agencies and the media to create a sustainable ecosystem for innovation growth.

The conference was attended by top government officials and leaders in the science and technology sector. The Minister of Science and Technology was specially invited to the event, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the national innovation system. 

The Governor of Niger State was represented by the Executive Chairman of Niger Foods, Hon. Sammy Adigun, who reiterated the state government’s support for science-driven agricultural and industrial development.

Also present at the conference were the Acting Director-General of SHEDA, Dr. Orishadipe Abayomi, and Professor Hillary Inyang, Chairman of the Global Institute for Sustainable Development, Advanced Analyses and Design, both of whom stressed the importance of innovation communication in achieving sustainable development goals and fostering industry-research linkages.

Participants at the conference agreed that improving science and innovation communication is critical to positioning Nigeria as a competitive knowledge-based economy. 

The event concluded with a call for policy reforms, capacity building for science communicators, and increased investment in platforms that promote the visibility and societal impact of scientific research.

Popular posts from this blog

Oma Life Rescue Foundation Commissions Abuja Office, Reaffirms Commitment to Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment

Image
By SILAS MEABE  News;sports;Entertainment  Abuja, Nigeria – January 21, 2026 The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oma Life Rescue Foundation, Dr. Omanibe Umusalma Blessing Ameh Sanusi, has officially commissioned the Foundation’s Abuja Office at Melita Plaza, Garki, Abuja, marking a major milestone in the organization’s mission to empower citizens and eradicate poverty across Nigeria. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Sanusi expressed deep appreciation to all guests who came to commemorate the opening of the Abuja office, describing the event as a significant step toward expanding the Foundation’s impact nationwide. She extended special gratitude to the Chairman of the organization, as well as the patrons, matrons, members, volunteers, and everyone who graced the occasion. Dr. Sanusi also acknowledged the unwavering support of international donors, partners, friends, and well-wishers, stating that the Foundation is “riding on...
Read more

AMBASSADOR GENEVIEVE TAMBARI FADEH,HONOURED WITH DOCTORATE AT 100 GLOBAL IMPACT PERSONALITIES SUMMIT.

Image
By Silas kabari Meabe  News,Sports,Politics  Abuja, Nigeria – September 10, 2025 Ambassador Genevieve Tambari Fadeh, renowned entrepreneur and CEO of You Don Chop Lagos , has been conferred with an honorary doctorate at the prestigious 100 Global Impact Personalities Summit held at Merit House, Abuja. The event, themed “Fostering Collaboration for Progressive Impact” , recognized global change-makers who have made significant contributions to society through entrepreneurship, innovation, and humanitarian efforts. In her emotional acceptance speech, Ambassador Fadeh expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition. “I feel very honoured and grateful. I honestly do not take this for granted. I didn’t even know what I did to deserve this, but I believe it’s a reflection of a track record. They must have reviewed my journey in one way or another,” she said. Despite the accolades, Ambassador Genevieve emphasized that her work has never been motivated b...
Read more

Hon. Hamisu Mohammed Anani Honoured at Merit House, Abuja

Image
By SILAS MEABE  News:sports:Entertainment  ABUJA-2025 Honourable Hamisu Mohammed Anani, the Executive Chairman of Wase Local Government Council and the ALGON Chairman of Plateau State, who also serves as the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), was on Tuesday honoured at Merit House, Maitama, Abuja. The award ceremony was organised by the British American Open University, also known as the Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Open University, in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication to public service, and commitment to grassroots development. Speaking at the event, Hon. Anani described the honour as a historic moment in his life and public service career. He dedicated the award to the people of Wase Local Government Area, stressing that the achievement was a collective one. “Today marks another history for me. I dedicate this honour to the good people of Wase Local ...
Read more