This reality forms the foundation of the Enugu Gaming Conference (EGC) 2026, which promises to be the most impactful edition since the event was launched.

Unlike previous editions that focused heavily on regulation and industry operations, EGC 2026 is deliberately placing Gaming Technology and Innovation at the center of discussions. The objective is clear: to position gaming as an important contributor to Nigeria’s digital economy and to showcase how technology will shape the industry’s future.

Today’s gaming operators are no longer just bookmakers or lottery providers. They are technology businesses that depend on sophisticated software, secure payment infrastructure, customer data management systems, fraud detection tools, and responsible gaming technologies.

As the industry becomes increasingly digital, stakeholders must embrace innovation to remain competitive.

This is why the anticipated participation of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and its key agencies represents a significant milestone for Enugu Gaming Conference 2026.

Their presence signals a new era where gaming is no longer viewed in isolation but as part of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda.

Agencies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), and other digital economy institutions are expected to bring valuable perspectives on innovation, cybersecurity, digital trust, data governance, artificial intelligence, and local technology development.

These conversations are critical because they address some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing gaming operators today.

The involvement of these institutions could also help change public perception of the gaming industry. For years, discussions around gaming have largely focused on regulation, taxation, and social concerns. EGC 2026 aims to broaden that narrative by highlighting the industry’s growing role in technology development, digital entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation.

Perhaps more importantly, the conference will create opportunities for collaboration between gaming operators, technology startups, software developers, fintech companies, regulators, and investors. Such collaboration is essential if Nigeria hopes to develop indigenous gaming technologies that can compete not only locally but across Africa and beyond.

Another major focus will be the growing importance of data protection and cybersecurity. As gaming platforms handle increasing volumes of customer data and digital transactions, trust and compliance have become business imperatives.

Discussions around data governance and digital security are expected to provide operators with practical insights into building sustainable and trusted gaming businesses.

Enugu Gaming Conference 2026 is therefore much more than a conference. It is a platform for redefining the future of gaming in Nigeria.

By bringing together leaders from the gaming and technology sectors, the event will help drive conversations that can attract investment, encourage innovation, strengthen regulation, and accelerate industry growth.

As Nigeria’s gaming industry enters a new phase of development, EGC 2026 stands poised to become the meeting point where technology, innovation, and regulation converge to shape the next chapter of the industry’s evolution.

* Ejiofor Agada is the Event Management Consultant for Enugu Gaming Conference (EGC) 2026.

All licensed gaming operators, casinos, and lottery services will now be required to plug their systems directly into a state-run central monitoring hub via API integration.

Gone are the days of manual, end-of-month spreadsheet submissions. The law, which came into force after Governor Peter Mbah‘s assent, establishes a regime of real-time, automated financial transparency that regulators say will eliminate billions in potential lost state revenue.

The “Central Monitoring System”: A Digital Watchdog

Buried within the legal text is a clear directive in the newly passed law, Section 19(g) empowers the Commission to monitor sales and conduct audits by “using information technology, a central monitoring system, standard-based solutions, comprehensive and automated processing.”

Industry insiders and legal analysts confirm this language is a direct order for operators to establish a live Application Programming Interface (API) connection with the Commission.

“What this does is create a direct pipeline from the operator’s server to the regulator’s dashboard,” explained Ejiofor Agada, a Gaming industry consultant based in Abuja specializing in gaming regulations. “Every bet placed, every spin made, every ticket sold, the state will see it simultaneously. It turns the regulator from an auditor into a live observer.”

Why This is a Game-Changer

Historically, a major pain point for gaming regulators globally has been the “black box” of operator data. Calculating Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), the core figure used for taxation, often relied on self-reported numbers submitted long after the fact, leading to disputes, lengthy audits, and potential leakage.

“Poor GGR calculation has been the Achilles’ heel of gaming regulation in many regions,” said Mr. Agada. “Enugu’s law tackles this head-on by making the data stream mandatory and instantaneous. It’s one of the most technologically aggressive regulatory moves we’ve seen in Nigeria.”

The law’s supporting regulations, particularly for casinos and sports betting operators, reinforce this. These cathegory of operators “must have a central computer or such other approved monitoring system, connected to all gaming machines.” This principle of a mandatory “connection” is being interpreted across all gaming verticals.

What Happens if Operators Don’t Comply? The Stakes Are High

The Enugu State Gaming and Lottery Commission is not asking politely. The law arms it with a formidable arsenal of penalties for non-compliance:

Heavy Fines & Penalties: Beyond standard fines, operators who fail to integrate could face penalties of 15% on top of their full tax bill if their manually submitted numbers are later found lacking.

“Guilty Until Proven Innocent” on Revenue: Without a live feed, the Commission is empowered to treat an operator’s revenue declarations with suspicion and appoint an independent auditor, at the operator’s own expense—to verify the numbers.

License Suspension or Revocation: Most critically, persistent failure to establish the API link is grounds for the Commission to suspend operations or revoke the gaming license entirely. Section 47 allows for revocation if a licensee contravenes any condition of their permit.

“Treat this as a core condition of your license, not a secondary IT project,” advised Agada. “The law frames transparency through integration as fundamental to the privilege of operating.”

Industry Reaction: A Mix of Apprehension and Opportunity

Early reactions from the gaming industry are mixed. Major international operators with experience in European markets, where such systems are common, are likely better prepared.

“We have always advocated for clear, technology-driven regulation,” said a spokesperson for a major international sports betting company operating in Nigeria. “This brings Enugu in line with global best practices for market integrity.”

However, smaller local operators and startups may face a significant technical and financial hurdle. Developing a secure, stable API that meets the Commission’s yet-to-be-published technical standards will require investment.

“Some operators see this as a costly burden,” our consultancy source added. “But the savvy ones see it as an investment in credibility. It eliminates future disputes and builds trust with the regulator, which is invaluable.”

The Road Ahead: Awaiting Technical Specifications

The law has set the stage, but the playbook is still being written. The Enugu State Gaming Commission will now develop and publish the detailed technical specifications, data security protocols, and certification processes for the API integrations.

Operators are advised to proactively engage with the Commission to understand the requirements. The clock is ticking; with licenses valid for only one year (Section 41), integration will undoubtedly be a key factor in the renewal process.

One thing is clear: The landscape of gaming regulation in Enugu State has entered the digital age. The message to operators is unambiguous: connect transparently, or risk being disconnected for good.

While much of the attention has gone to the fast-growing betting and lottery space, a deeper story is unfolding beneath the surface: local gaming tech startups are beginning to think bigger, designing platforms, tools, and games that could one day compete globally.

In many ways, gaming is one of the most “exportable” forms of digital value creation. Unlike oil or manufacturing, it doesn’t need ports or ships; it only needs code, creativity, and a good internet connection.

Nigerian developers are starting to realize that what they build here, from gaming platforms to payment engines, can serve users anywhere. That shift in mindset is opening new doors.

Some startups are already creating white label gaming platforms, compliance tools, and analytics software that could easily power operations in Kenya, Ghana, or even parts of Europe.

The key challenge, however, remains visibility and credibility. For Nigeria’s gaming tech scene to scale globally, it must first be recognized as a serious hub for innovation. That means creating a clear framework that allows Nigerian firms to patent, protect, and promote their gaming technologies internationally.

Agencies like NOTAP and NITDA can play a crucial role here, by facilitating global partnerships, technology export licensing, and digital product certifications that give Nigerian solutions legitimacy abroad.

The gaming export conversation isn’t only about software; it’s also about content and creativity. Imagine Nigerian stories, folklore, and music woven into mobile or console games that resonate across Africa and beyond.

We’ve already seen how Afrobeat transformed global music, the same could happen with African-themed gaming if developers receive the right support.

Creative studios could partner with local animators, storytellers, and developers to produce distinctly African games that can compete in global app stores.

To make this happen, Nigeria needs to treat gaming tech as a legitimate export sector,  one that deserves tax incentives, export grants, and inclusion in national digital trade strategies. Just as fintech became Nigeria’s global tech identity in the 2010s, gaming technology could define the next decade if given the right ecosystem support.

Companies like Maliyo Games, GammaStack, JUJU GAMES, Mookie, Dash Studios, and a handful of local developers are already demonstrating that Nigerian tech can meet international standards.

What’s missing is a strong export-oriented strategy, a push to position Nigeria as the Silicon Savannah of gaming.

If government agencies, investors, and the private sector rally around this vision, Nigeria could soon move from being a big consumer of global gaming technology to a credible exporter of it.

Because in today’s digital economy, the world doesn’t just want to play, it wants to play something new. And Nigeria’s developers, storytellers, and innovators are more than capable of supplying that next big global hit, coded, created, and crafted right here at home.

*Series #16 |‘Gaming Grid’ is your weekly pulse on Nigeria’s gaming industry, its trends, and its trailblazers. Stay plugged in on Techeconomy as we unpack the opportunities beyond the odds.

Held under the theme “From Unification to Diversification: Shaping Nigeria’s Gaming Future,” the conference served as both a mirror and a map. It reflected how far we’ve come and pointed boldly toward where we’re headed.

Once viewed solely through the lens of lotteries and sports betting, gaming in Nigeria is now morphing into something bigger and more structured, diversified verticals, unified data systems, interstate collaborations, and a wave of innovation that goes well beyond picking lucky numbers.

If the goal is to grow a resilient, digitally driven economy, gaming is not just a player, it’s a team captain.

At the Enugu conference, state regulators, operators, fintech innovators, and policy wonks gathered not merely to pat themselves on the back, but to wrestle with the complex question: How do we move from a fragmented regulatory environment to a harmonized yet diverse gaming ecosystem that benefits all? The answers weren’t always simple, but they were insightful.

You only had to sit through the fireside chats and breakout sessions to see the big picture. One discussion focused on how states are beginning to localize gaming laws while still aligning with national frameworks, creating room for innovation without losing grip on control. Another panel laid bare the hidden job chains in gaming: app developers, call center agents, payment gateway engineers, gaming influencers, and even event planners, all part of a thriving, under-celebrated ecosystem.

And of course, the money talks. Nigeria’s gaming industry is estimated to generate upwards of ₦450 billion annually. But beyond revenue, what makes gaming economically invaluable is its accessibility.

Unlike oil rigs or tech unicorns, gaming businesses can sprout with modest capital and scale rapidly, employing youths, driving digital adoption, and generating taxes without importing complex machinery.

One speaker, with admirable wit, remarked: “In Nigeria, gaming doesn’t just diversify the economy, it diversifies dreams.”

From a small POS booth in Nsukka to a blockchain-based lottery startup in Lagos, the reach is broad, and the potential is breathtaking.

But we’re not there yet. The sector still wrestles with regulatory turf wars, operator licensing conflicts, and societal misconceptions. However, the Enugu Gaming Conference showed that unity of purpose, even among diverse interests, is possible, and necessary.

This is just the beginning. As this weekly column takes off, we’ll explore the depth and width of Nigeria’s gaming revolution, its people, its policies, its pitfalls, and its potential.

So to those still asking, “Is gaming really that important?” this column replies, watch this space.

Gaming isn’t Nigeria’s side hustle. It’s part of its economic backbone.

‘Gaming Grid’ is your weekly pulse on Nigeria’s gaming industry, its trends, and its trailblazers. Stay plugged in on Techeconomy as we unpack the opportunities beyond the odds.

Held at the International Conference Centre in Enugu, the seminar was part of a government-led initiative to confront the disturbing rate at which children and adolescents in the state are being exposed to gambling activities, often via mobile apps, social media platforms, and unregulated betting shops.

In his presentation titled “Your Future First: Understanding and Escaping the Dangers of Underage Gambling,” Agada addressed an auditorium filled with secondary school students, educators, and child protection advocates.

He explained that while gambling is legal in Nigeria for individuals aged 18 and above, it becomes illegal—and deeply harmful—when minors are involved.

“Gambling is not just about money; it’s about your mind, your time, and your future,” Agada said. “For children, it isn’t entertainment—it’s a trap that leads to emotional stress, poor academic performance, and in some cases, crime and addiction.”

Using simple language and interactive tools, Agada walked students through the different forms of gambling, the difference between regulated and unregulated platforms, and the dangers of being lured by the promise of “easy money.”

He advised those already exposed to gambling to speak up and seek help through parents, teachers, or counselors.

The talk also spotlighted the active role being played by the Enugu State Gaming Commission in combating the problem. Agada highlighted regulatory measures such as mandatory age verification (KYC) by licensed operators, targeted enforcement against illegal gambling operators, and public awareness campaigns across schools and communities.

“We’re working closely with operators, security agencies, and schools to ensure that children are not targeted or harmed by the gaming industry,” he added.

Reacting to the presentation, Mrs. Ngozi Eni, commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, described it as “a wake-up call for parents, teachers, and the entire society.”

“It’s not just about punishing those who allow children to gamble,” she said. “It’s about educating our children, empowering our communities, and enforcing the law without compromise.”

As Nigeria’s gaming industry continues to grow, stakeholders at the event agreed that more targeted initiatives are needed to protect the nation’s youth and ensure that legal gambling remains an adult-only activity.

However, there have been growing concerns and criticisms regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of the commission in fulfilling its objectives.

It then becomes imperative to now examine the reasons why stakeholders in the industry feel that the NLRC should be scrapped.

This position is mostly based on various aspects such as the lack of transparency and accountability in the commission’s operations, inefficient utilization of funds for social development, inadequate regulation and oversight of gambling activities, high incidences of fraud and scams in the industry, negative impact on small-scale gaming operators and local businesses, lack of interest by the commission on responsible gambling initiatives and lack of international best practices in gaming/gambling regulations.

By exploring these issues extensively, a lot more light will be shed on the need for reform and alternatives to improve the Nigerian gambling sector.

The NLRC was established in 2005 with the aim of regulating and overseeing lottery and other gaming activities in the country.

Its establishment was seen as a way to generate revenue, promote transparency, and protect consumers in the industry. Though the establishment of the commission was purely accidental, as it was initially set up to manage the funds generated from the Sports Lottery concept that was set up at that period.

The main objectives of the NLRC then became to ensure the integrity of lottery/gaming operations, protect the interests of players, and generate funds for social development programs.

The commission also took up the responsibility of issuing licenses, monitoring gambling activities, and enforcing compliance with regulations.

One of the major concerns with the National Lottery Regulatory Commission is the lack of transparency in the licensing and permitting process, the allegations of mismanagement as well as lack of financial accountability of funds for CSR and Good Cause. There have been little or nothing to show where the funds intended social development programs are spent.

Above all these is the fundamental issue of the near absence of a clear cut plan to encourage Responsible Gambling and tackle menace of problem gambling in the country.

As the month of November is globally observed as commemorative month for Responsible Gambling, it is noteworthy to explain how Responsible gambling promotes a healthy balance between entertainment and potential financial loss.

This is because Problem gambling can have severe financial implications for individuals and their families. Many gamblers who struggle with addiction end up in debt, squandering their savings and assets. The financial strain caused by problem gambling can lead to negative consequences such as poverty, bankruptcy, strained relationships and mental health complications.

Responsible Gambling therefore, is exclusively the role of an interested industry regulator…a trait of which NLRC has been grossly lacking in.

At the launch of an Online betting platform BETBABA in Lagos recently, the managing director of the company, Francis Ifie, noted that irresponsible gambling and betting have caused serious issues for gambling addicts and people who suffer from gambling-related harm. At the time, he called out NLRC for failure to should impose strict rules to make sure that betting companies are in line with strict measures that will fight the further spread of problem gambling and gambling-related harm.

According to him;

“it is important that Nigerian gambling operators have facilities on their betting platform that promote safe and responsible gambling, and it is imperative that NLRC should have been more focused on such a regulation”.

Because responsible gambling goes beyond promoting a safe and enjoyable experience while minimizing the potential harms in gambling, it also goes a long way to showcase the social responsibility side of the industry by encouraging the use of parts of the funds the regulator is entitled to, to promoting good causes, CSR and other values in the society.

This brings up another of the key reasons why the National Lottery Regulatory Commission should be scrapped, which is the poor utilization of funds generated from the gaming industry that has a direct impact on social development programs in Nigeria. Insufficient funding and misallocation lead to the underfunding of vital initiatives, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.

This not only hampers the progress of these programs but also undermines the potential benefits that the gaming industry could bring to society.

In addition to the forgoing, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission has been criticized for its weak regulatory framework and inadequate enforcement mechanisms owing to the perceived unconstitutional framework on which the commission’s existence lies.

Without delving much into the egregious wordings of the Constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, it is important to note that issues pertaining to the powers of the federal government in exclusive list and concurrent list, did not give the powers to regulate gambling to the federal executive.

Therefore setting up a federal agency to undertake the role of gambling regulation for the entire country is already a mis-application of the law. But as this particular matter is already before the Supreme Court, such will be left in the hands of the Honourable Justices to sort out.

The lack of effective compliance, monitoring and enforcement actions further weaken the commission’s ability to regulate the gambling industry.

This is obviously as a result of the diversity of the country, which makes it certain that regulation of gambling can not be the responsibility of a central agency but rather the individual states where such gambling practices are allowed.

Looking at international best practices and success stories in gambling regulation, it becomes clear that alternative approaches can yield more effective results.

Various countries like South Africa, Kenya, Tnazania and Bostwana, have implemented successful gambling regulatory reforms, showcasing models that prioritize transparency, accountability, stringent security measures as well as concerted efforts at promoting responsible gambling.

By the statutes that most African regulatory bodies under the auspices of The Association of Gaming Regulators in Africa, adhere to, has always been in the area of testing and certification, responsible gambling, curbing illegal gambling, training and research. Instructively ‘Licensing’ is not one of those in focus for regulators as is being done in Nigeria through the NLRC.

To address the challenges faced by the NLRC, alternative approaches should be considered. Empowering state and even local governments to play a more active role in oversight, licensing and regulation that can lead to better outcomes.

Also implementing transparent and accountable gaming regulatory frameworks, coupled with encouraging innovation and technology adoption, can also bring much-needed improvements to the sector.

By exploring these alternative approaches, Nigeria can pave the way for a more efficient and trustworthy gaming system.

In conclusion, the NLRC faces significant issues in transparency, accountability, fund utilization, and regulation of gambling activities.

These challenges undermine the commission’s effectiveness and compromise its ability to fulfil its objectives. Scrapping the commission and implementing reforms that address these issues could lead to more efficient and beneficial gambling/gaming industry in Nigeria.

*Ejiofor Agada, a social/political and technology industry commentator, writes from Abuja. He can be reached via ejiofor.agada@gmail.com

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To say that it is expected that such an enterprising professional with background in innovations and sciences from his youth, will be an understatement.

Coming on the heels of the last Minister for Science and Technology, Chief Ogbonnaya Onu (before the addendum of Innovations), this unique ministry became important from the onset of this democratic dispensation in 1999. From then till date, 8 different minsters of varying backgrounds have overseen this ministry with varying degrees of success and performance. Without going into specifics, most of the activities of the previous occupants of that seat, could be easily measured from the state of the Agencies within the ministry over the years.

According to official description, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology is a Nigerian ministry whose mission is to facilitate the development and deployment of science and technology apparatus to enhance the pace of socio-economic development of the country through appropriate technological inputs into productive activities in the nation.

It is headed by a Minister appointed by the President, assisted by a Permanent Secretary, who is a career civil servant.

It is on record that President Bola Tinubu, on 16 August 2023 appointed Chief Uche Nnaji as the Minister, while Dr. (Mrs) Amina Muhammed Bello Shamaki is the current permanent secretary in the ministry. By so doing, the responsibility of using his skills and understanding to create a viable science and technology sector through innovation and research, squarely rests on the shoulders of the High Chief of Nkanu land in Enugu state.

This is a no mean feat as the Ministry boasts of the third highest with number of parastatal/ agencies (18) after Economy ministry (30) and FCT (21).

For the Uche Nnaji -led ministry to make a lasting impact that’ll be felt even after office and demonstrate his capacity as well as justify the confidence of the President in his choice as minister, each and every agency under his ministry must feel his presence.

To achieve this, Chief Uche Nnaji might want to look at the following:

1. National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI)

Officially, TIP is an integrated government support programme to government establishments such as academic institutions, research centres and private sector, either individually or in partnership with the intention of creating and nurturing of budding value-added and technology-based enterprise.

There is need to independent research assessment to thoroughly ascertain the weaknesses of the Agency and proffer solutions.

2. Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN)

ECN has statutory mandate for the strategic planning and co-ordination of national policies in the field of Energy in all its ramifications. The new minister must focus on the efforts of ECN regarding the comatose.

The Minister must engage the private sector to ensure actual implementation of the Energy Policy of the country.

3. Nigerian institute of science laboratory technology (NISLT)

NISLT has the mandate to ensure effective and efficient management and administration of laboratories in all the tertiary and Research Institutions in the country. A detailed assessment of this institute, to ascertain its level of effectiveness on its mandate especially across institutions offering the course of study, is mandatory.

4. National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA)

This agency was established to implement the policy that is aimed at conducting research, promotion, coordination and development of biotechnology for Nigeria.

With the commercialization of genetically modified (GM) crops in Nigeria, the new minister needs to commission an impact assessment of GM crops in the country.

5. National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) – This agency is vested with the mandate of training and developing middle-to-high level manpower and conducting policy research in the areas of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) management for all tiers of government and the private sector. It is lacking in ensuring the planning, development, use and diffusion of technology as well as its application to the industry and its impacts on the social, economic, cultural, political and geographical environment of Nigeria.

6. National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT)

This agency was created to provide globally competitive and environmentally friendly technologies in industrial, agro-chemicals, solid minerals, bio-chemicals, man-made fibers, effluent monitoring and control, petrochemicals, engineering plastics and allied chemicals for the technological and economic advancement of Nigeria.

The minister might want to find out why the Agency is lacking in capacity in renewable energy research, catalysis, and treatment of industrial effluent waste.

7. Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO)

Though set up to to carry out research and development activities in the field of technology and the operation of a nuclear research facility, Nigeria is nowhere near the fulfillment of this mandate.

8. Project Development Institute (PRODA)

Provider Digital Access Enugu was set up to facilitate the Nation’s drive towards technological self-reliance, by producing the capital goods and process technologies needed by SMEs to produce local raw materials in producing consumer goods.

A concept that started out on a great note has died over the years. The new minister needs to commission independent asset assessment review for the PRODA facilities.

9. Federal Institute of Food & Industrial Research (FIIRO)

With a mandate of accelerating industrialization in Nigeria FIIRO has over the years developed technologies that have promoted the ideals of entrepreneurship development. However, it has mostly performed below its capacity.

10. National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI)

An agency designed to accelerate rapid technological development for the country, NASENI was designed to conduct developmental work in the areas of manufacturing, and as such, it can coordinate the proliferation of technologies developed either within or outside of its Centers including patents obtained.

This is one of the most under-performing Agencies under the Ministry and the new Minister will have to set in motion modalities to checkmate the gross misuse of NASENI levy collected over the years.

11. Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis And Onchocerciasis (NITR) – This agency was created towards the elimination of the two Neglected Tropical Diseases, African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness in man, nagana in domestic animals) and Onchocerciasis (River blindness). But of late it has been rather more concerned with leadership squabbles and counter accusations of corruption rather than research. The minister needs to help install a qualified Veterinary professional outside the already compromised institution, for better results to come out from the institute.

12. National Office for Technology Acquisition And Promotion (NOTAP)

An agency with a mandate to implement the acquisition, promotion, and development of technology and at the same time correct certain imperfections in the acquisition of foreign technology into the country. NOTAP however has not been able to live up to expectations.

The Minister must look into the challenges companies face in obtaining approval from NOTAP over technology transfer agreements with foreign companies especially as it affects remittances and tax bedeviling the Agency.

13. Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA)

An agency created for the research, development, documentation and promotion of Nigeria’s Indigenous Medicine for sustainable integration into the national healthcare delivery system. Since it launched its research on MALARIA ELIMINATION PROJECT and -ANTI-DIABETIC PROJECT, the agency is yet to conclude and present its findings.

14. National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA)

This Agency was created to focus on research and rigorous education, engineering development, design and manufacture, particularly in the areas of instrumentation, rocketry and small satellites as well as in satellite data acquisition, processing, analysis and management of related software.

The minister might want to know that there is need to commission asset assessment review of the Agency urgently.

15. Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC)

This agency is a research institution that is responsible for industrial raw materials growth, promotion and utilization. The minister needs to find out why RMRDC finds it hard to tackle rejection of Nigeria’s agro and mineral resources in the international markets.

16. Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI)

This is an institute responsible for researching and developing road and building materials for the Nigerian building industry.

The RMRDC has so far not come up with any unique innovation in either building or road construction in Nigeria. A commission of inquiry is what the new Minister ought to constitute for this agency.

17. National Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST)

One of the oldest Agencies in Nigeria, set up to provide courses of instructions, Training and Research in the field of Leather and Leather Product Technology and conduct research and Development on Leather Technologies and Goods Production. NILEST has been unable to push forward the National Leather, Leather Products Policy Implementation Plan till date.

In conclusion, the new Minister has a date with fate as he tackles all the challenges before him especially in his mandate to reposition the Nation’s foray in science and technology. This he can only achieve by first clearing the Augean stable of the Agencies under his ministry and ensure optimum performance. We wait to celebrate his expected success stories.

Ejiofor Agada, a social/political and technology industry commentator, writes from Abuja. He can be reached via ejiofor.agada@gmail.com