National Assignment
17 October, 2024
At the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Meeting in Geneva, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, (Cross River South), emphasized the vital role of science, technology, and innovation in achieving global peace and sustainability.
Speaking before an international audience, Senator Ekpenyong highlighted how advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and blockchain are critical in solving today’s most pressing challenges, including energy security, climate change and food security.
Senator Ekpenyong Commended Nigeria’s efforts under President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Senate led by Senator Godswill Akpabio in fostering innovation through key legislative frameworks. He specifically mentioned the National Science and Technology Development Agency Act and the Cybercrime Act as instrumental in driving Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation agenda. He also underscored the importance of international collaboration, urging the IPU to support developing nations in leveraging technology for sustainable growth.
Calling on the global community, the Senator stressed the need to empower young Nigerians, who make up more than 60% of Nigeria’s population, by facilitating knowledge exchange and investing in Nigeria’s Science Technology and Innovations sector.
Senator Ekpenyong’s speech was a call for international partnerships to create a more peaceful and sustainable future through the transformative power of Science, Technology and Innovations.