The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to achieving “zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions.”
The minister disclosed this in a statement issued by the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency, Dr. Felix Ale, on Monday.
He made the promise at the 8th United Nations General Assembly High-Level Side Event on Social Business, Youth, and Technology in New York, United States of America.
The minister stated that this initiative aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals and emphasises the transformative potential of technology and youth-led innovation.
Speaking to an audience of global leaders and innovators, Nnaji emphasised the need for international collaboration to drive sustainable development and climate action.
He stated, “Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing access to clean energy is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change while promoting inclusive economic growth.”
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic initiatives, the minister detailed the country’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Roadmap, which is a 13-year plan aimed at transforming Nigeria into a knowledge-based economy.
He remarked, “We are fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and the development of a highly skilled workforce.”
According to the statement, the event, which took place on the sidelines of the 79th UNGA, attracted notable figures such as Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus and various international leaders.
Nnaji focused his address on leveraging technological advancements to reduce unemployment and combat climate change, including Nigeria’s adoption of methanol as a renewable energy source.
“Nigeria is committed to working closely with international partners to develop innovative solutions that promote sustainable development,” he noted.
He also stressed the importance of deploying off-grid and renewable energy technologies in rural areas to ensure reliable power access.
Nnaji urged the international community to support initiatives aligned with the Three Zeros vision.
“Through collective action, we can achieve a future of zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero carbon emissions”, he said.
