The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called for enhanced Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to scale university-led innovations and commercialize security technologies as a strategic response to Nigeria’s security challenges. He made this appeal during his lecture at the 34th and 35th convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), on Friday.
Speaking on the theme “Harnessing Technological Innovation: A Strategic Solution to Insecurity,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of long-term investment in research and development, stating, “We must adequately fund research and development teams to evaluate and offer solutions to present and future challenges. Short-term solutions to long-term problems will only compound our issues.”
He urged stronger collaboration between academia and industries to foster innovation, noting that universities like FUTA are equipped with the intellectual and technical expertise to drive advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and surveillance technologies. “Institutions like FUTA are vital hubs for research and innovation tailored to Nigeria’s security landscape,” he said.
The minister also underscored the critical balance between human intelligence and technological innovation, remarking, “A technology plan without proper support for humans is no plan. Leaders must invest in human-ware through welfare packages, training, and career development, alongside investments in software and hardware.”
Addressing graduating students, Dr. Tunji-Ojo encouraged them to leverage their education to develop solutions to societal challenges, particularly in fields such as health, education, finance, and security. “You are graduating from a university of technology in an emerging economy. Use it well. Analyze problems and solve them. By continuing to learn, grow, and adapt, you will not only enrich your lives but also contribute to society,” he advised.
The minister called for sustained investment in science and technology education to empower young Nigerians to address the country’s pressing issues effectively.
