Experts advocate focus on industrialisation, innovation for national development

Founder, Cutix Cable Plc, Obiajulu Uzodike on Tuesday tasked the incoming government with policy formulation aimed at driving the industrialization of the country for national growth and development.

He stressed that the Engineering sector has the capacity to proffer solutions to the myriads of problems confronting the nation, particularly by using digital technology to tackle insecurity.

Uzodike who identified rampant corruption in the system and unhealthy politics played in Nigeria as inimical to the nation’s development, spoke at Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) Annual Public lecture of the College of Engineering, titled, “Engineering and Politics: Catalyst to national Growth, Industrialization and Security. ”

Uzodike, who is the owner of Cutix Cable Nigeria, called for a fundamental change in the style of politics played in the country and advocated for partnership and collaboration by government and industry experts to drive the industrialization needed for the nation’s growth.

Uzodike said the numerous economic problems bedeviling the country could be addressed through the application of Engineering to enhance growth, industrialization, and security.

While describing the world powers as countries that were driven by technology to become advanced and great nations, he added that Nigeria can attain such height by committing to promoting quality education through re-engineering.

Meanwhile, Former Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State, Prof. Akaehomen Akii Ibhadode, on Tuesday said national development has a relationship with innovation, which nations particularly Nigeria must embrace.

Ibhadode who spoke during the Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) innovation day titled, ” Innovation: The Driver of National Development. ” said Nigeria urgently needs to innovate, noting that the country is not doing well in this regard.

In his remark, Vice-Chancellor, Igbinedion University Okada (IUO), Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye said the lecture was insightful adding, “It is my hope that the outcome will stimulate further interrogation and provide the basis for policy formulation and implementation by relevant governmental authorities in the national interest.

“The institution of the IUO Innovation Day to form part of activities marking the Founder’s Day is not a mere coincidence.

“Rather, it is a deliberate effort to recognize the symbiotic relationship between innovation and research excellence underpinning the founding of Igbinedion University, both of which are crucial for national development.”