House Committee on Science Expresses Concern Over SHESTCO’s Condition

Members of the House Committee on Science and Technology have expressed dissatisfaction with the poor condition of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), established to support scientific research and development in the country.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Science, Mr. Inuwa Garba, voiced these concerns during an oversight function carried out by the Committee in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Mr. Garba explained that many of the complex’s pieces of equipment are either malfunctioning or outdated, coupled with a lack of infrastructural facilities and inadequate manpower.

“We are not impressed with what we have seen. As a research institute, the government should implement a robust and effective budgetary system to make this place work.

“We have seen billions of investments lying idle with nothing positive happening. We need to address whether this is due to a lack of proper funding or other issues. The committee will discuss how we can partner with the DG and the management of Sheda, as well as the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, to make this place work,” Mr. Inuwa Garba stated.

He emphasized the importance of keeping up with global trends in science and technology, “Nigeria should not be left behind. Research and development are crucial for positive change. With over two hundred million people, we must take this very seriously. Despite good initiatives and significant investments, government negligence is evident.”

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In response, the Director General of SHESTCO, Professor Paul Onyenekwe, acknowledged the committee’s observations and expressed readiness to collaborate with both government and private sectors to address the challenges for national development.

“The committee’s visit has highlighted the exact issues we face. When I previously mentioned these problems, it may have seemed like an exaggeration, but now they have seen the situation firsthand. They are objective, dedicated, and passionate about seeing this place develop and the country progress,” Professor Onyenekwe stated.

He added that the complex currently employs about 320 staff, with only half being technicians, technologists, and researchers. He emphasized the importance of training staff on new equipment and maintaining existing ones.

Established in 1993, SHESTCO aims to utilize high technology to improve the living standards of Nigerian citizens and ensure a wholesome environment. Its mission is to provide facilities for high-level research and development in basic and applied sciences for the entire scientific community in Nigeria.

The complex is mandated to apply effective practices in science and technology, strengthen the technological base of the Nigerian economy, and operate a nuclear research reactor facility capable of providing services in agriculture, medicine, industry, and basic science.