The Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR, has lauded the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for its significant contributions to technological advancements, innovative products, and sectoral interventions across Nigeria’s economy.
During a visit to the agency on Thursday, August 22, 2024, Gbajabiamila, accompanied by Deputy Chief of Staff Senator Ibrahim Hadeija and Permanent Secretary, State House, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, toured NASENI’s facilities. The visit featured a test drive of NASENI’s electric pickup truck and inspections of the Hatch Box Innovation Hub, Solar Irrigation Pump, and other groundbreaking technologies, including home solar systems, prepaid meters, laptops, smartphones, and batteries.
This visit was part of a series of engagements aimed at deepening understanding of the activities, challenges, and contributions of agencies directly under the Presidency’s supervision, while ensuring alignment with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking after the tour of the NASENI complex in the Idu Industrial Area, Gbajabiamila expressed his admiration for the agency’s progress under the leadership of Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, who assumed office in September 2023. He noted that the rapid output of innovative products within 11 months is a testament to Mr. Halilu’s commitment and vision.
“I am truly impressed by what I’ve seen today. The purpose of this visit was to gain firsthand insight into NASENI’s operations, understand its successes, and identify any challenges. I’m pleased to see that the agency is not only meeting expectations but also exceeding them in several areas. The work being done here is commendable, and I’m confident that these innovations will make a lasting impact,” said Gbajabiamila.
The Chief of Staff emphasized that NASENI’s role is critical in driving technological advancements and positioning Nigeria as a global competitor in science and engineering. He highlighted the abundance of skilled and talented Nigerians capable of pushing the country forward technologically and praised the agency for creating platforms to harness this potential.
Earlier in the visit, Mr. Halilu provided an overview of NASENI’s recent initiatives, strategic partnerships, and technological interventions aimed at supporting the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“With the backing of President Tinubu and under your guidance, we have embarked on a transformative journey focused on technological self-reliance and industrial growth. Your support has been invaluable in enabling us to make substantial progress toward achieving these goals,” Mr. Halilu stated.
The visit underscores the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, promoting industrial development, and leveraging technology as a driver of economic growth in Nigeria.
