By Eunice Orike
Executive vice chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure NASENI, Prof. Mohammed Haruna, has stressed the importance of domesticating intelligence technology for Nigeria’s national development.
He stated this when he led NASENI’s technical team on a courtesy visit to Proforce Intelligence Systems Manufacturing Facility in Ode Remo, Ogun State.
Haruna hinted that the purpose of the visit was to familiarise the team with the activities of Proforce and to discuss the way forward and work plan for the new partnership between NASENI and Proforce to the next level, noting the long-term goal for the partnership between the two is to jointly achieve key global technological feats to shape the next industrial revolution in Nigeria and have a global multiplier effect. According to him, the areas of collaboration include the development of software for cellular intelligence to be domiciled in Nigeria, portable see-through wall-reader, 3D see-through wall-reader, standard wi-fi interception systems, manufacturing of unmanned aerial systems, development of Proforce BAM trainer aircraft, perimeter surveillance systems-pro barrier perimeter security system, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, localised production of suspensions, brake systems, powertrain, heating and cooling systems, gear, chassis and engines; production of commercial vehicle run-flat tires, ballistic glasses etc. The NASENI DG was optimistic that the collaboration between both organisations will open up a wide range of new possibilities that, otherwise, might have been elusive. “The current situation in Nigeria needs a leap in our innovation outputs. I hope that this union with Proforce and the dialogue that it stimulates will help us achieve that leap – not just to manage the challenges of 2022, but to better prepare for other kinds of challenges that lie ahead,” he said.
He further said that NASENI has contributed immensely to the technological development of the nation by employing a variety of innovative methodologies and approaches, including extensive consultations with a wide range of governmental and non-governmental experts.
“One of the key drivers of global change is science and technology. Therefore, NASENI and Proforce coming together will not only change Nigeria but the world”, he added.
On his part, the group managing director, Proforce, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin, thanked the EVC for identifying with them for partnership, stressing this is the best time for the collaboration and seeking out synergies between critical stakeholders.
