Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, has proceeded to Dakar, the Senegalese capital, to represent President Muhammadu Buhari at the World Forum for Science.

The three-day event began today, March 8, with the theme: “Science and humanity – restore the links”.

A statement by Onu’s Special Assistant Sunny Onyeukwu said: “Dr. Onu is expected to join world leaders at the Forum to explore ways through which science, technology and innovation can be more effectively deployed to address sustainable developmental challenges confronting humanity.

“The Forum will also focus on how deepening the depth and broadening the reach of science and technology can be leveraged to become a veritable instrument to fast track improvements in food security, economic diversification, health care delivery, education, commerce, infrastructure and renewable energy, especially in third world countries.

“In addition, it will afford Nigeria the opportunity to draw global attention to President Buhari’s resolve to strengthen the role and place of science and technology in the nation’s development process and seek global support toward strengthening the policy initiative.

“Dr. Onu is also expected to hold sideline discussions with leading opinion leaders in the international community with a view to mobilising global multilateral co-operation and soliciting Foreign Direct Investment to stimulate growth in Nigeria’s science and technology sector.

“He is accompanied to the event by the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research & Development Council, Dr. Hussaini Ibrahim, and that of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, Prof. Danladi Slim Matawal.

“Dr. Onu is due back in the country on Friday, March 11.”

•Photo shows Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.