Some stakeholders participating at the 2024 Science and Technology Expo in Abuja on Monday lauded the turnout of innovators, saying they expected to see a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and innovations.
The participants told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews that they expected to see innovative technologies such as spacecraft, satellite technology, remote sensing, propulsion systems and others.
NAN reports that the expo with the theme “ STI: solution to national economic challenges’’ will hold from March 11 to 15. It is an annual event aimed at creating awareness and showcasing achievements in science and technology.
It creates a platform for interaction for over 1,000 exhibitors to showcasing the latest solutions, technologies trends, and innovations.
A tech analyst, Sunday Pam, said he was expecting to see new products in the expo and get more ideas.
“I look forward to seeing innovators who have produced development solutions for the future.
“I believe such a huge platform like this brings together new products and bold ideas, cutting-edge scientific research, and the spirit of collaboration and connections which I am here for,’’ Pam said.
Also, Mr Chike Okoye, an exhibitor of artistic designs, described the exhibition as a welcome development, expressing belief that there will be more interface between stakeholders in the industry, as the days unfold.
“Through the expo, we can now know where and to whom we can go for the raw materials or research advice that we require for our industries. So, it is very commendable on the part of government,’’ he said.
Mrs Angela Anyim, an exhibitor of herbal drugs, said the expo has exposed her to a huge platform to showcase her business.
According to her, the expo is designed to engage the public in an interactive, hands-on way with different aspect of science, technology and engineering.
Mr Banji Damola, a science and technology teacher from Government Secondary School, Bwari, FCT, described the expo as well thought out, especially in terms of the number of innovators who turned up.
“ The expo encourages exhibitors to feature local STEM discoveries, the specific research and innovations coming out of local laboratories, and the science and technology behind most businesses,’’ he said.
An educational software exhibitor, Mr Kanu Okonkwo, said he was looking forward to connect with customers, meet new industry’s colleagues, and showcasing innovative software solutions for laboratory.
“This expo is our opportunity to engage with user communities to understand their challenges, showcase new technologies and innovations, and share knowledge around the ever-evolving scientific landscape.
“We also expect delegates to attend and learn about how technology advancements will impact this industry, and seek where there are new opportunities to maximise efficiency to advance the economy,’’ he said.
Mrs Ramota Yusuf, an entrepreneur who deals on locally made leather products, commended the Federal Government for providing the platform to showcase her products to the world.
Mr Richard Nnamani, an observer at the expo, said that the expo was a good attempt to expose the ingenuity of Nigerians, suggesting that the exhibition should be taken from one state another t
“This kind of expo should not be happening only in Abuja but across the country, maybe next time they should take it to Lagos, Enugu, Kaduna or Kano so that people in these places will get to know what is going on as far as innovation is concerned.
