Recently, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, called on Nigerians to embrace and prioritize locally-made goods.

According to him, Nigerian-made products not only meet high-quality standards but also play a critical role in strengthening the nation’s economy.

He pointed this out at the opening of a specialized training program in Abuja aimed at empowering youth and women through hands-on skills in various sectors.

The training, organized by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), equips young Nigerians and women with practical knowledge in fields.

This field consists of cassava and potato bread production, mushroom farming, cosmetics manufacturing, date syrup production, and converting diesel generators to compressed natural gas (CNG).

Simply, this initiative is part of a broader effort to create jobs, reduce poverty, and encourage entrepreneurship by transforming scientific research into practical, market-ready products.

In addition, Chief Nnaji emphasized that this initiative is closely aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, which includes combatting poverty, fostering economic growth, and creating jobs.

By promoting science, technology, and innovation (STI), the ministry aims to transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape.

“Our commitment to advancing Nigeria’s technological and industrial capacity is unwavering,” Nnaji stated, underscoring the ministry’s role in fostering an ecosystem that moves the country closer to economic self-sufficiency and industrial power.

Additionally, he explained that translating research and development (R&D) into commercially viable products is essential for Nigeria’s long-term growth and economic stability.

“This program is a step towards bridging the gap between research and the market, enabling us to generate foreign exchange and create sustainable job opportunities.

By focusing on commercialization, we are not only strengthening the naira but also working to diversify Nigeria’s economic base,” he noted.

Programs like this, he explained, support the growth of small businesses by providing individuals with the skills to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to national development.

FIIRO, which has been a prominent institution in Nigeria’s research sector since its founding, plays a vital role in developing and promoting technologies suited to Nigeria’s needs.

Through its ongoing work, FIIRO helps to address local challenges by leveraging Nigeria’s abundant raw materials and fostering skills that drive innovation in diverse industries.

Chief Nnaji acknowledged the institute’s efforts in supporting young Nigerians and women, who, with the right training, are empowered to establish their businesses and create jobs within their communities.

As part of its strategic vision, the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has established partnerships through various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), utilizing Nigeria’s local resources and labour force.

These collaborations aim to drive innovation across the country’s geopolitical zones by working closely with regional agencies and stakeholders in the STI sector.

The Technology and Innovation Centers established by the ministry are intended as hubs for knowledge exchange, helping to accelerate research applications and build an innovation-driven economy.

Addressing the program’s participants, Chief Nnaji urged them to approach the training with dedication and to collaborate as “innovation clusters.”

He emphasised the collective efforts of these trainees which could foster Nigeria’s shift from a consumption-focused economy to one driven by production and innovation.

Also, he encouraged Nigerians to actively support these budding entrepreneurs by purchasing their products, which would help to ensure their long-term sustainability and market presence.