PROTOCOLS
1. Today, we are at a very critical juncture of history. The world, as we know it, is changing.
2. I am sure you will all agree that in the first two decades of this century, we have seen significant shifts across the globe. Whether it is in security, trade, technology, global warming or population demographics, the world has truly changed.
3. Nigeria is not isolated from these trends. We are doing our best to respond to these changes. But we cannot be comfortable with just being a passive nation. We must be proactive.
4. Exactly one year ago, during my Parley with the Participants of the Senior Executive Course No.38, I tasked the Management of the National Institute with the responsibility of looking at Science, Technology and Innovation for the Development of Agriculture and Agro-Allied Industries.
5. I was therefore very pleased to hear this proposal was adopted as the theme for Senior Executive Course 39.
6. The National Institute was created as a policy formation center where senior Nigerians from all segments of society work together with the common goal of making Nigeria better.
7. I am pleased that the Participants of Course 39 focused one on how Nigeria can address its Food Security Challenges leveraging Science, Technology and Innovation.
8. I have listened attentively to the presentation by the Course Participants and I am glad that the findings and policy recommendations are apt and implementable.
9. As I mentioned in my budget speech just 2 weeks ago, “only tailored Nigerian solutions can fix Nigeria’s unique problems”. I am proud to say your report is in agreement with that.
10. Your submission has come at a time when Nigeria is recording significant successes in Agriculture and food security. However, we cannot afford to be complacent. We must develop strategies to sustain this momentum.
11. Be assured that the economic management team will carefully study your Report and work towards implementing its recommendations.
12. This administration will also continue to address the challenges of the National Institute in both infrastructure and manpower for improved performance.
13. On behalf of the Government and the people of Nigeria, I congratulate you for your patriotic efforts.
14. Thank you and God bless Nigeria.
