As part of efforts to propel Nigeria into the orbit and become a force to be reckoned with in scientific innovation through space development, the federal government has inaugurated the Centre for Atmospheric Research (CAR) in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State. Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Ogbonanya Onu, performed the inauguration of the Centre. Speaking at the ceremony, Onu said that if “our forefathers were in the dark and could not see light during our own time we have seen the light and we should be able to move into space to bring in more light to the world.
The minister, who led the director – general of the National Air Space Development Research Agency, (NASDRA), Prof. Mohammed Sheidu, to the event expressed delight at the quality of the research centre, describing it as laudable. He said the project would help to boost Nigeria’s advancement in technology, research and learning, as well as provide job opportunities for the youths.
He added that the centre would also help in the diversification of the nation’s economy through agriculture, reducing hazards in flooding as it will help in detecting early warning signal of flood, projection in population and determination of weather for farming. “Without mincing words, I am thrilled by the project and delighted with the level of the work and level of innovation exhibited.
This will form the crux of research into the mineral resources that abound in the state and the key areas to tap without wasting time,” the minister enthused. Conducting the minister round the project site, the director general, of NASDRA, Prof. Mohammed Sheidu, said the research centre has the capacity for flood warning, search and rescue, detecting planting season, ideal crop for particular soil among others.
He emphasised that without the adequate support of the President Muhammadu Buhari coupled with the innovation of the minister who understands the workings of Science and technology the project would have been in vein. Mohammed noted that the Atmospheric Research laboratory is expected to give support to mineral exploration and capable of supporting the host university boost research and learning.