FG Supports STICOMMS’25, Embarks on Strategic Partnership

Minister Expresses Support for STICOMMS 2025 Conference

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has shown strong support for the upcoming 1st National Conference on Science, Technology, and Innovation Communication (STICOMMS 2025). He described the event as a unique and first-of-its-kind conference that holds significant importance for the nation's development. The minister emphasized that his ministry is committed to collaborating with the organizers to ensure the success of the conference.

Chief Nnaji assured the organizers—African University of Science and Technology (AUST) and its partners, led by AUST President Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, and the STICOMMS’25 local organizing committee (LOC)—that the Ministry will work closely with them to achieve the conference’s objectives. He noted that the timing of the event aligns well with the ministry's ongoing efforts to promote research and innovation outputs from various research agencies across the country.

To further strengthen this collaboration, the minister pledged to deploy two senior staff members from the Ministry to join the LOC. This move aims to ensure full representation of the Ministry in the planning and execution of the conference, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the partnership.

AUST President Leads Engagement with the Minister

Earlier, the President of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, led the STICOMMS’25 local organizing committee on a visit to the Honourable Minister. The purpose of the visit was to seek the Ministry’s support for the upcoming 1st National Conference on Science, Technology, and Innovation Communication, which is scheduled to take place from October 21–23, 2025, at AUST.

During the meeting, the AUST President outlined several areas of potential collaboration between the university and the Ministry. These include:

• Endorsement of the conference by the Honourable Minister.
• Delivery of a keynote address at the opening session of the conference.
• Nomination and sponsorship of Ministry staff to participate in the event.
• Showcasing selected innovations developed by the Ministry’s research agencies.

Other key points discussed were the mobilization of research agencies under the Ministry to actively engage in the conference and the inclusion of the Ministry’s profiles and achievements in the official conference program.

Strengthening Partnerships for National Development

The visit by the AUST President marked an important step towards building a productive partnership between the Ministry and its agencies. By working together, stakeholders aim to enhance the communication of science, technology, and innovation, which is crucial for national development.

The collaboration is expected to bring together experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss strategies for improving the dissemination of scientific knowledge and technological advancements. This initiative aligns with broader goals of fostering innovation and driving economic growth through enhanced communication channels.

As the conference approaches, the involvement of the Ministry and its agencies will play a vital role in ensuring that the event meets its objectives and delivers meaningful outcomes for all participants. The partnership between AUST and the Ministry represents a promising opportunity to advance the nation’s scientific and technological landscape.