Reps Pass Bill to Establish Technology Transfer, Acquisition, Promotion Commission Through Second Reading
ByJuliet Vincent
The House of Representatives has passed through second reading, a Bill to establish the National Commission for Technology Transfer, Acquisition and Promotion.
The Commission when established will continuously monitor the inflow of foreign products and technology into Nigeria.
According to the sponsor of the Bill, Hon. Clement Jimbo, it seeks to leverage on the huge and active Nigerian population to create jobs for youths, process raw materials into finished goods/products, as well as increase the Gross Domestic product (GDP) and Transfer Technology to Nigeria.
Presenting his lead debate on the general principles of the Bill, he said the overriding principle behind the introduction of this Bill is to ensure regular value addition to the country’s solid mineral’s exploration.
He also said it was triggered by the need to create sustainable jobs for our teeming youths.
According to him, the Bill also seeks to jack up our Gross Domestic Products GDP and increase our revenue base through foreign exchange.
Hon. Jimbo pointed out that the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS says over 200 million cell phones, over 500,000 solar systems, over 12 million cars, millions of cameras, microphones, laptops and remote controls are currently in used in Nigeria.
The lawmaker said all the listed products have one thing in common which is batteries.
He added that the major ingredient in the production of battery is a solid mineral lithium.
He pointed out that a Germany foreign broadcasting company, Deutsche Welle DW says lithium has been discovered in large quantities in Nigeria in Abuja, Nasarawa, Kogi, Ekiti, Kwara, and Cross Rivers States.
He quoted the Minister of Solid Mineral, Mr Dele Alake saying that, ‘we will do everything possible to discourage the carting away of our solid minerals without value addition’ which he said, the statement is in sync with the intendment of the Bill.
Addressing journalists after the plenary on Wednesday, Jimbo stressed the need for speedy passage of the Bill, which he said would lead to better life for Nigerians.
He said in compliance with relevant sections of the Standing Orders of the House as amended, the proposed Bill has no financial Implication when passed into law.
