Senator Ekpenyong Urges Global Community to Harness Science for Sustainability

The Senator representing Cross River South, Asuquo Ekpenyong, has called on the international community to harness science, technology, and innovation (STI) to create a more peaceful and sustainable future.

Ekpenyong made this appeal while addressing the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in Geneva.

Highlighting the transformative power of STI in tackling global challenges, Senator Ekpenyong emphasised the need for greater international cooperation to fully leverage these advancements.

He said innovations in areas like sustainable energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology are not only reshaping societies but also providing solutions to pressing issues such as energy security, climate change, and food and water accessibility.

“Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, recognizes the vital role that STI plays in national development,” said Ekpenyong. “We are making significant progress in using these innovations to promote peace and sustainability. The Nigerian Senate, led by Senator Godswill Akpabio, has initiated measures like the National Science and Technology Development Agency Act to foster innovation in key sectors”.

Senator Ekpenyong also noted Nigeria’s legislative efforts, including the Cybercrime Act, designed to protect digital infrastructure and build trust in technological systems. He reiterated the country’s commitment to supporting STI projects through policies like the Energy Transition and National Development Plans, all aimed at achieving sustainable growth.

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Despite the strides being made, the senator acknowledged that challenges remain for Nigeria and other developing nations. He cited issues such as infrastructure gaps, limited funding, and the need for more robust international support.

He urged the IPU to play a crucial role in helping countries maximize the potential of STI through better legislative frameworks, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.

“The IPU is uniquely positioned to foster global partnerships that can help Nigeria and other nations accelerate the development of innovative solutions to both local and global challenges,” Ekpenyong said. “By connecting Nigerian innovators with their global counterparts, we can drive progress in areas like renewable energy, AI, and sustainable agriculture.”

Senator Ekpenyong also underscored the importance of empowering Nigeria’s youth, who make up over 60% of the population.

He called for increased investment in education, funding opportunities, and international collaborations to support young innovators in realizing their full potential.

Concluding his remarks, Senator Ekpenyong expressed optimism that the IPU would continue to back nations like Nigeria in their efforts to use science and technology as tools for peace and sustainability.

“The key to a peaceful and sustainable future lies in our ability to innovate, collaborate, and build resilient systems that uplift all members of society”. he stated.

The IPU meeting in Geneva brought together parliamentary representatives from around the world to discuss global issues, with a particular focus on leveraging science and technology for sustainable development.