The Federal House of Representatives commended the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for its pivotal role in fostering creative research and establishing innovative hubs, enhancing science and technology education among Nigerian students and youth. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, expressed this appreciation at the closing ceremony of a two-week cohort learning program held at the Abuja Innov8 Hub.
During the ceremony, Deputy Speaker Kalu lauded TETFund’s “Research for Impact Initiative (R4i)” as a collaborative effort with Innov8 Hub, launched in 2022. This initiative aims to usher in a new era of innovation, technology, research, and development in Nigeria, with the objective of fostering economic growth and comprehensive national development.
“The House is interested in providing solutions to the hydra-headed needs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The call for innovation that will challenge tradition, to increase production; that call cannot be overemphasized,” stated Kalu. He emphasized the necessity of innovation in addressing the country’s challenges and acknowledged the role of programs like Innov8 Hub in empowering young minds.
Deputy Speaker Kalu also acknowledged the support of the Embassy of the State of Israel in Nigeria and the Israeli community in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
Speaking about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for innovation, Kalu expressed his satisfaction with TETFund’s efforts, stating, “I’m proud of the work you are doing, and you should do some more. I’m impressed that you are planning to multiply this and incorporate innovators outside this hub.”
Furthermore, Deputy Speaker Kalu called for the establishment of similar innovation hubs across the South East region of Nigeria, aligning with the objectives of the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P). He emphasized that engaging young people in innovation and entrepreneurship can contribute significantly to lasting peace and development in the region.
In response, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono, highlighted the initiative’s role in repositioning public tertiary institutions as catalysts for national development and appreciated Innov8 for its partnership.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, an exhibition of group works developed during the two-week training, and a tour of the facilities for Deputy Speaker Kalu to witness the ongoing creative activities at the hub.
