ADVANCING THE RENEWED HOPE AGENDA: CHIEF UCHE NNAJI’S MILESTONES IN INNOVATION, SCIENCE, AND TECHNOLOGY

By Uchenna Bartholomew Arum

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is a blueprint of his administration for good governance, focusing on economic growth, security, and national development. The agenda is designed to build on past policies while addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply committed to transforming Nigeria’s economy through innovation, science, and technology. At the heart of this transformation is Chief Uche Nnaji, the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, whose achievements align seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda—a blueprint for national development, economic revitalization, and technological advancement.

Under Chief Uche Nnaji’s leadership, the ministry has recorded groundbreaking achievements that are driving economic growth, fostering industrialization, and enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness. These milestones reflect President Tinubu’s vision of a prosperous, self-reliant, and technology-driven Nigeria.

One of the key pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda is digital transformation and national security. In line with this, Chief Uche Nnaji has secured approval for the procurement of three optical satellites and one Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, which will significantly enhance Nigeria’s capacity in agriculture, defense, and disaster management. Additionally, the joint development of a coastal RADAR surveillance system with Israel’s GETS System using crewless aerial vehicles will further strengthen Nigeria’s security infrastructure.

The Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes economic diversification and local production to reduce dependence on imports. Chief Uche Nnaji has championed the establishment of a domestic drone manufacturing plant, a groundbreaking move that positions Nigeria as a key player in the global drone industry. Furthermore, the groundbreaking for a solar PV module assembling plant in Akpugo, Enugu State, and Nigeria’s first Renewable Energy College in Kogi State will boost Nigeria’s clean energy sector and create job opportunities for youths.

Food security is a central goal of President Tinubu’s administration, and Chief Uche Nnaji’s ministry has played a vital role in agricultural advancements. The release of Tela Maize, BT Cowpea, and BT Cotton, which are genetically improved to resist pests and improve yields, will reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports and empower local farmers. Additionally, the development of protocols and seedlings for tropical fruits such as pineapple, banana, and plantain will enhance agricultural productivity.

The partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA) to revolutionize sorghum and maize cultivation through AI, blockchain, and remote sensing is a testament to how technology can transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda emphasizes sustainable energy solutions to drive industrialization and rural electrification. Under Chief Uche Nnaji’s leadership, Nigeria has witnessed significant strides in this sector, including the deployment of biodigesters for biogas and electricity generation and the execution of multiple renewable energy projects nationwide.

The signing of an MOU for the establishment of a cassava-based ethanol plant in Ekiti State aligns with the government’s push for biofuel production and green energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

To prepare Nigeria for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Chief Uche Nnaji has launched initiatives that promote skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The Technology Nigeria platform, a hub for skill acquisition, learning, and apprenticeship, is a game-changer for Nigeria’s digital economy.

Furthermore, the National CleanTech Innovation Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (CIEE) will foster green technologies and attract investments in sustainable innovations. The signing of MOUs with Domineum/Edinburgh UK for Abuja Tech City and the Association of Computer Village Technology Merchants of Nigeria (ACOVITEMN) will drive digital innovation and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global tech space.

Scientific research and industrial growth are essential to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision of a knowledge-based economy. Chief Uche Nnaji has facilitated the commissioning of the South West Zonal Office Complex for the Federal Institute of Industrial Research and the commissioning of the database management center for the Nigerian Council of Food Science & Technology (NICFOST).

The Public-Private Partnership between NOTAP and PZ Cussons Nigeria has also led to the upgrade of research equipment at FUTA, fostering technological advancements in Nigeria’s universities.

Education and workforce development remain central to President Tinubu’s administration. The National Policy on Welding and the establishment of Centers of Welding Excellence in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Welding will create skilled manpower for Nigeria’s industrial sector.

Additionally, the launch of the National CNG Conversion Training aligns with the government’s drive for alternative fuel adoption and capacity-building in green transportation.

In conclusion, Chief Uche Nnaji’s remarkable achievements as Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology are clear evidence of the practical implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. His initiatives in satellite technology, local manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, research, and digital innovation are propelling Nigeria toward self-sufficiency, economic prosperity, and technological advancement.

With these milestones, the Renewed Hope Agenda Mr. President is not just a vision—it is a reality in progress. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the innovative policies of Chief Uche Nnaji, Nigeria is on the path to becoming a global powerhouse in science, technology, and innovation.

Good morning Nigeria.

Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji is truly advancing the RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

Uchenna B. Arum is from Umuatugbuoma Akegbe Ugwu Awkunanaw.