Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, has commended schools in the state for serving as hubs of science and innovation, describing them as worthy models for advancing technological and national development.
Arigbabu made the remark at the 4th Annual Conference of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Mountain Top University (MTU), Magboro, Ogun State. The conference, themed “Science and Innovation in the Intelligent Age for Inclusive and Sustainable National Development,” brought together scholars, policymakers, and innovators to explore pathways for building a knowledge-driven society.
The Commissioner emphasised that genuine national development can only be achieved through deliberate investment in education, technology, infrastructure, good governance, and ethics, noting that science and innovation remain the foundation for improving human life and driving sustainable progress.
“Science and innovation boost productivity, resilience, and competitiveness across all sectors. They form the bedrock of transformation in any nation aspiring for inclusive growth,” Arigbabu said.
He highlighted the efforts of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration in positioning Ogun State as a knowledge and innovation hub, citing initiatives such as the digitalisation of the education sector, innovation-for-inclusion programmes, and the rehabilitation, remodelling, and equipping of schools to create a more conducive environment for teaching and learning.
“As we stand at the dawn of the intelligent age, let us build a Nigeria where intelligence meets integrity and innovation drives inclusion. Let us make knowledge our national currency and innovation our shared language,” he urged.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Prof. Ayolabi Adebowale, encouraged participants to apply insights gained from the conference to promote excellence and deliver measurable societal impact.
He commended the Ogun State Government’s strides in improving science education, adding that strong collaboration between academia and government remains key to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential in science, technology, and innovation.