By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has announced that the Federal Government is taking decisive steps to tackle the increasing problem of building and bridge collapses in Nigeria. One of the key agencies involved in this effort is the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI).
During a recent visit to the NBRRI Headquarters in Abuja, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming NBRRI into a global research center, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He highlighted that NBRRI has already made significant progress in implementing Executive Order No. 05 and other vital policies related to innovation, science, and technology (IST), which are crucial for sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.
While commending NBRRI’s accomplishments, the Minister urged the institute to continue its efforts in finding solutions to critical issues such as road and building collapses, which are hindering the nation’s desired growth and sustainable economy.
He also assured his support in seeking the President’s assent to the NBRRI Bill, enabling the agency to effectively carry out its mandate.
In response, Prof. Samson Duna, the Director-General of NBRRI, expressed the institute’s mandate to enhance capacity building and conduct applied integrated Research and Development (R&D) in the road building and engineering materials sector of the Nigerian economy.
He appealed to the Minister for assistance in acquiring institutional land in the Federal Capital Territory, which would serve as the NBRRI Technology Village for showcasing and utilizing various R&D outputs.
The Federal Government’s proactive measures and collaboration with NBRRI signify a significant stride towards addressing the menace of building collapse in Nigeria. This initiative aims to ensure safer infrastructure and foster sustainable economic growth for the nation.
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