Borno
State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara said the state was ready to embrace
science and technology to position for greatness.
In order to achieve this, the governor on Wednesday announced the creation of a
new ministry, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MSTI); which is
aimed at enhancing the socioeconomic development processes of state.
The governor, who made the announcement at the swearing in of 22 commissioners,
said the new ministry would position the state to make the use and develop
technology.
He said the ministry would allow for the implementation through appropriate
technological inputs into productive activities of various sectors of economy.
He said the new ministry will be saddled with utilization of modern technology
in the effective management of government activities.
He said the activities of the new
ministry will include; revenue generation and electronic information
dissemination to various government Ministries, Departments and Agencies
(MDAs).
He said: “”This new Ministry is to establish and maintain mechanism for
empowering youths in skills acquisition, entrepreneurial development and vocational/technical
trainings.”
The
governor also revealed that the ministry, is also to “promote and harness
science and technology research” for socioeconomic development, job and wealth
creation.
He therefore, directed the Secretary to the State Government, Usman Shuwa to
re-adjust the mandates of the Ministry of Poverty
Alleviation and Education to facilitate the takeoff of Science and Technology
Ministry.
Umara said: “I have also directed the transfer of the mandate of Youth
Empowerment from Ministry of Poverty Alleviation to that of Sports.”
The governor said the Ministry of Land and Survey will be transformed into an
efficient and scientific outfit using the Geographical Information Systems
(GIS) under the office of Executive Governor.
He however said the task of building Borno, is a collective responsibilities of
Commissioners, by putting their heads together for effective discharge of their
respective duties.
He told the new commissioners that: “We must emphasize complimentary of
functions and responsibilities.
“There is the need for the cooperation, understanding and commitment of every
one of you; so that collectively we deliver our promises to improve living
conditions of our people.”
On budgetary implementation, the governor said: “Any request for funds must be
supported by budgetary provision in line with the due process; and for the
avoidance of virements to ensure budget discipline.”
He told them that: “You are to operate an open door policy with free flow of
information and in accordance with laid down rules and regulations.”
He instructed them to operate from their ministries and not to frequent
Government House, except on invitations or emergencies.
He also charged them to ensure that all civil
servants are assigned appropriate schedules of duty for effective monitoring
and supervision.
He called on the residents of the state to re-dedicate towards achieving the 10-point
agenda of his government in order to get improved living conditions.