Buhari: How COVID-19 opened up talents of Nigerian scientists

President Muhammadu Buhari says the COVID-19 pandemic opened up the immense talents and potential of Nigerian scientists.

Speaking on Monday at a public forum of the Nigerian Academy of Engineers, Buhari stated that the whole world turned to science and technology for solutions when the pandemic started wrecking havoc across the globe.

Represented by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, the president further described scientists as worthy assets to be nurtured.

“I think the pandemic has truly opened up the immense talents and creativity of Nigerian scientists and engineers and if the current momentum is supported, the next few years could be incredibly exciting,” Buhari said.

“We are proud of Nigerian Academy of Engineers; your membership is made up of accomplished Nigerian engineers across all disciplines industry sectors of engineering in Nigeria and in the diaspora.

“This provides it with the depth and diversity of experience and competence to provide advice on virtually all areas of engineering in the country.

“I am sure that as engineers, you will agree with me that one of the most poignant lessons of the response to the pandemic is the critical interdependence of science and engineering.”

The president also noted that the African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Disease located at Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun state, has developed a rapid test for COVID-19 and has been working on a vaccine in collaboration with DIOSynVax (Digital Immune Optimised Synthetic Vaccines), Cambridge UK.