Government policy on technological development in Nigeria: an appraisal/ created by Arthur Ebun Davies

The role of technology as a driver of economic development is now recognized and accepted in Nigeria. This is how a comprehensive policy in the scientific and technological fields was launched in 1987. It was expected that with the implementation of the policy, indigenous technology would be revived and Nigeria would break the technological barrier in the shortest possible time. But this turns out to be a big dream, because the implementation of scientific and technological policy has suffered setbacks. Research and development activities that lead to innovations, inventions and adaptation of indigenous technology are not evolving properly. Moreover, problems such as insufficient research funding, the fragile foundation of science education, and excessive reliance on inappropriate, prepackaged foreign technology affect the achievement of technology and science policy goals. However, all hope is not lost. With a more vigorous method of policy implementation through adequate financing, appropriate management and coordination of research and development, Nigeria is capable of achieving technological development.