From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The federal government has partnered with DAIMLAS Corp, a leading United States-based technology firm, to drive technological innovations and sustainable development initiatives in the country.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, made this known in Abuja at the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the ministry, the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), and the DAIMLAS Corp.
According to the minister, the collaboration aligns seamlessly with Nigeria’s 2017–2030 Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Roadmap, a strategic blueprint designed to position science and technology as the bedrock of national development.
He added that it would connect Nigerians in the diaspora with local stakeholders, facilitating international partnerships, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities.
Chief Uche Nnaji further underscored the importance of the initiative, stating, “This partnership is a shining example of how public-private collaboration can accelerate national development.” By leveraging artificial intelligence, we are creating a system that empowers our states, attracts global investments, and positions Nigeria as a leader in innovation across Africa and the world.”
The Director General of the National Centre for Technology Management, Olushola Odusanya, said the establishment of the NACETEM AI Centre of Excellence will educate Nigerians on the use of AI.
He said, “There is destructive technology that is going around the world, which is artificial intelligence, and as Nigerians, we need to train more people in the use of this technology because they are very destructive.
We do not want a repeat of what happened in biotechnology; that is why we want to start by bringing all the stakeholders together to an ecosystem where infrastructure is provided, and also Nigerians in the diaspora who are experts in artificial intelligence will be involved to relate with our youths who have different AI objectives and don’t know how to go about it.”
On his part, Joseph Wehbe, the chief executive officer of DAIMLAS Corp, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, adding that it is an opportunity for global impact.
“We are honoured to partner with FMIST and NACETEM. The collaboration will build a platform that will serve as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s scientific and technological advancements.”
