Ministry Commends NOTAP for Technology Regulation, Saving Billions for the Economy
The Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (FMSTI) has expressed its appreciation for the significant role played by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) in regulating the inflow of technology into Nigeria. Mr. James Sule, the Permanent Secretary of FMSTI, commended NOTAP for its efforts in safeguarding indigenous technologies through the registration and evaluation of technology transfer agreements.
During a special briefing by NOTAP Director-General, Dr. DanAzumi Ibrahim, Sule lauded the agency’s regulatory role and highlighted the substantial financial savings it has achieved for the country. Notably, between 2012 and 2022, NOTAP’s interventions resulted in an impressive N140 billion worth of savings for the Nigerian economy.
Emphasizing the importance of protecting the nation’s economy from capital flight, Sule urged NOTAP to continue its vital work and maintain its commitment to preserving indigenous technologies. He also praised NOTAP’s local vendor policy, which has contributed to the growth of young indigenous ICT experts and the exportation of locally developed software to other African countries.
Sule stressed the need for synergy among various agencies under the FMSTI, emphasizing the importance of fueling innovation to drive economic growth in Nigeria.
In his presentation, Director-General Ibrahim highlighted NOTAP’s core function of regulating the inflow of foreign technology. He further underscored the agency’s significant accomplishments in preventing capital flight, with N140 billion saved over the past decade. Ibrahim also highlighted NOTAP’s initiatives, including the establishment of Intellectual Property Technology Transfer Offices (IPTTOs) in research and tertiary institutions across Nigeria to promote patenting of research outputs.
Additionally, NOTAP has facilitated partnerships with industries and institutions, resulting in the upgrading of laboratories and the development of the technology storyboard initiative, aimed at fostering local innovation and technology among children. Ibrahim also mentioned the successful collaboration between NOTAP and the Bank of Industry to commercialize selected research and development projects beneficial to Nigerian society.
Overall, NOTAP’s efforts have not only regulated the inflow of foreign technology but also contributed to the growth of indigenous innovation and saved significant capital for the Nigerian economy.
