The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at uplifting 2.5 million Nigerians out of poverty within the next five years. This transformative initiative, spearheaded by Mr. Khalil Halilu, the Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, aims to harness the power of technology transfer and a series of innovative programs.
During a recent media briefing held in Abuja, Halilu outlined NASENI’s visionary approach, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to achieving substantial results through technology transfer initiatives. One key objective is to slash the country’s import bill by 25 percent, reducing it to $37.4 billion by 2030, through strategic partnerships fostering local manufacturing of the top 10 highly demanded products.
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Moreover, NASENI envisions the creation of over three million jobs by 2030 through targeted technology knowledge transfer to 300,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Halilu underscored the agency’s efforts in capacity building for SMEs, citing successful collaborations resulting in the production of 35 market products, including electric tricycles, laptops, phones, lithium batteries, solar home systems, and solar irrigation equipment.
Highlighting NASENI’s partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency, Halilu discussed plans to deploy renewable energy technologies, particularly solar resources, in rural communities to enhance electricity visibility and supply. He emphasized Nigeria’s potential in leveraging its power challenges for solar energy technology development and mineral production required for renewable energy, such as lithium.
In a significant move towards sustainable energy solutions, NASENI has inked an agreement with a Chinese firm to construct a $150 million lithium-iron plant, aligning with Nigeria’s commitment to meeting global energy transition demands.
Addressing agricultural needs, NASENI is set to revive 55,000 broken-down tractors under its National Tractor and Vehicle Recovery program, aiming to convert them into cleaner energy sources.
Furthermore, the agency is tackling security concerns by reviving armoured personnel carriers and abandoned weapons to prevent their potential misuse.
Expressing concern over the underrepresentation of women in engineering, Halilu announced the launch of the Developing Engineering Leaders through Her (DELT-HER) special fund scheme to encourage greater female participation in the sector.
NASENI’s bold initiative marks a pivotal step towards driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and uplifting millions of Nigerians from poverty through the transformative power of technology.
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