A Call for Investment in Science and Technology
The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abayomi Arigbabu, has emphasized the importance of investing in science, technology, and innovation as a critical pathway to achieving sustainable national development and global competitiveness. His remarks were delivered during the keynote address at the 2025 International Science Conference held at Mountain Top University, Ogun State. The conference, themed “Science and Innovation in the Intelligent Age for Inclusive and Sustainable National Development,” brought together experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss the role of science in shaping the future.
Arigbabu highlighted that nations which have undergone significant economic transformation did so through deliberate investments in creativity, innovation, and scientific advancement. He stated, “Science is not an abstraction—it is a public good that drives productivity. Nations that bless science, bless their own development. Science helps us understand the world and design a better future.”
He further explained that innovation involves turning ideas into tangible impact. According to him, countries like Singapore, China, and the United States have become global leaders by creating innovations rather than simply consuming them. Arigbabu urged Nigeria to shift from a culture of consumption to one of creation, emphasizing the need to move from limitation to innovation.
The Intelligent Age and Its Challenges
Speaking on the current “intelligent age,” Arigbabu noted that the world is witnessing a revolution driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and data analytics. He said, “This new age amplifies cognition, augmenting human intelligence with machine capability. But as machines grow smarter, our responsibility deepens. We must ensure that automation does not replace human dignity and that AI serves inclusive human progress.”
He also called on policymakers to address the issue of “data inequality,” which limits access to digital opportunities. Arigbabu warned against the risks of skill displacement and privacy breaches, stressing the need for a balanced approach to technological advancement.
On inclusiveness and sustainability, the commissioner emphasized that today’s development must not come at the expense of future generations. He said, “Science and innovation must respect environmental balance, social equity and economic resilience.”
Ogun State’s Initiatives in Education and Technology
Citing examples from Ogun State, Arigbabu highlighted several initiatives under Governor Dapo Abiodun aimed at integrating technology into education. These include the Digital Education Revitalisation Platform, smart classroom projects, virtual teaching and learning platforms, and continuous teacher training in STEM education through the Progressive Mathematics and Science Initiatives.
Vision for the Future
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Elijah Ayolabi, described the conference as part of the university’s strategic vision to foster collaboration between academia, government, and industry for national growth. He stated, “We are in an era where knowledge drives progress. Our commitment at Mountain Top University is to produce graduates and researchers who will use science and technology to solve societal problems and make Nigeria a key player in the global knowledge economy.”
The Dean of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Edwin Andrew Ofudje, emphasized that no nation attains greatness without investing in knowledge, creativity, and innovation. He added, “Science and innovation are not mere academic pursuits; they are the lifeblood of transformation.”
Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Omolola Omosebi, described the conference as “a platform for intellectual exchange, showcasing groundbreaking research, and inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators.”
Addressing the Challenges of Innovation
In her presentation, Oluwatoyin Oludahunsi, Dean at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, examined the challenges of innovation in the intelligent age. She emphasized the importance of sustainability and the need for Nigeria to invest more in research and development.