The Nigerian Government is collaborating with the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) to ensure seamless visa application for participants of its Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference.

Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this when the General Secretary of AAS, Professor Friday Okonofua led a delegation on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

The Minister stated that hosting of the AAS Bi-Annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference in Nigeria is a welcome development as every innovation is a product of research and science.

He urged the AAS not to limit the number of participants to 1000, to pave the way for youths to participate.

“Let’s open our space to look at young innovators because science is like the foundation; it is essential in all spheres of life. Technology is a product of science; anything called development is a product of science and Nigeria needs it now. Nigeria cannot just be seen as the Giant of Africa based on our population but based on our contribution to Africa’s GDP and our ability to proffer solutions to regional problems. This is a golden moment for Nigeria,” he said.

The Minister assured the delegation that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration has made conscious efforts to ensure the country harnesses opportunities in the science and technology value chain.

This conference according to him is a golden opportunity to showcase Nigeria, bridge gaps and create career paths for the teeming population of the country. It is expected that hosting the conference in Nigeria would bring about a transition towards innovation for efficiency and development.

He acknowledged the commitment of AAS to research, science and development in Africa.

Tunji-Ojo also used the opportunity of the visit to brief the guests on innovations carried out in the Nigeria Immigration Service. In particular, he announced the forthcoming opening of the e-gates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.

The Minister also commended Professor Friday Okonofua for his innovation and contributions as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the first University of Medical Science in Nigeria established in Ondo State.

Earlier in his speech, the General Secretary of AAS, Professor Friday Okonofua commended the Minister for his proactiveness in pushing the country forward.

He stated that his team was in the Ministry to brief the Minister on the upcoming African Academy of Sciences Bi-annual General Assembly and Scientific Conference, scheduled for December in Abuja.

He mentioned that this is the first time the conference will be held in Nigeria.

“This ceremony would be receiving 1,000 scientists from across Africa including African Presidents, Heads of State and the likes of Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

“We are here to seek collaboration and your advice on how to ensure the event will hold in a seamless environment,” he added.

Original article written by Vin Oliji and published in Voice of Nigeria.