Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, launched the newly formed Lagos State Science, Research, and Innovation Council (LASRIC) and Cybersecurity Advisory Board on Friday to advance scientific innovation in the state.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, his
Deputy, announced the take-off grant of N1 billion at an event held at the
Banquet Hall, Lagos House in Ikeja, paving the way for the board’s activities
to begin.
He stated that his administration is committed to
increasing success metrics through the implementation of the LASRIC Seed Fund.
According to him, “with the provision of the LASRIC Seed
Fund to the tune of N1,000,000,000 (one billion Naira) in the first tranche
payment to the council.” We believe that this fund will continue to catalyse
development in our beloved State.
The Governor stated that the State’s development is the
central focus of the current administration’s THEMES Plus Agenda, and that to
drive deeper positive economic outcomes, an Innovation, Science, and
Technology body must be established to manage and propel Lagos State’s
engagement with the science and technology ecosystem.
He stated that LASRIC has supported over 70 initiatives in
Research and Development, ranging from projects in biomass and biodiesel to
artificial intelligence for medical imaging and that their efforts have
increased innovation activity in the state by more than 250 per cent.
The Governor outlined the government’s key responsibilities
to the newly re-commissioned LASRIC board, which include increased funding and
support, collaboration and partnerships, capacity building, a focus on local
challenges, the promotion of an innovation culture, and the LASRIC SEED FUND,
stating that all of these areas will improve the state’s ecosystem science,
innovation, and technology.
He stated that the formation of the State’s Cybersecurity
Advisory Board is a significant step towards enhancing digital security and
advancing the state’s development agenda.
“Given the escalating threats, Lagos must implement a
comprehensive Cybersecurity protection strategy. The increased use of digital
tools presents both opportunities and real-world risks to our development.
“Today’s inauguration is consistent with our goal of
transforming Lagos into a smart, livable, and cyber-secure city,” the
Governor stated.
Tobosun Alake, Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, previously stated in his welcome address that the Sanwo-Olu administration has continued to improve technology and digital solutions that will improve the quality of life for its citizens.