The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill aimed at establishing the Projects Development Agency (PRODA) in Enugu. The agency is intended to serve as a statutory body responsible for conducting scientific, engineering, and technological research. The bill is designed to facilitate the domestication and industrialization of appropriate technology for Nigeria's socioeconomic advancement.

The bill was passed after a third reading, following the presentation of the report by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Senator Abbas Aminu Iya. The bill is an offshoot of the National Science and Technology Development Agency Decree No. 5 of 1977, which lists the Project Development Institute under order 1 (1), paragraph (b) of the decree.

The objectives of the bill include strengthening the science-policy-society interface among practitioners, policymakers, and experts, based on emerging experiences and broad-based research. The bill also aims to advance scientific, engineering, and technological transfer through international cooperation to bridge technology gaps between countries. Furthermore, it seeks to promote inclusive planning for stronger innovation systems, involving co-design by innovators and users across all fields of science and technology. The bill intends to enhance equal opportunities and access to technology for all Nigerians.

The bill was passed after extensive deliberation and following the presentation of the report by Senator Iya, who stated, "The Senate has received and considered the report of the Committee on Science and Technology on the Projects Development Agency (PRODA) Enugu (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 49)." The bill was sponsored by Senator Patrick C. Ndubueze of the Imo North Senatorial District.

The objectives of the bill, as outlined by Senator Iya, include: Strengthening the science-policy-society interface among practitioners, policymakers, and experts, based on emerging experiences and broad-based research. Advancing scientific, engineering, and technological transfer through international cooperation to bridge technology gaps between countries. Promoting inclusive planning for stronger innovation systems, involving co-design by innovators and users across all fields of science and technology. Enhancing equal opportunities and access

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