By Henry Umoru

ABUJA: The Senate has passed a bill to establish the Projects Development Agency (PRODA) in Enugu.

The bill aims to create PRODA as a statutory agency responsible for conducting scientific, engineering, and technological research.

Its mandate is 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, PDP, Adamawa Central.

Senator Iya 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).”

He added, “The Senate, at its sitting on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, debated the general principles of the bill for the establishment of PRODA, which was sponsored by Senator Patrick C. Ndubueze of the Imo North Senatorial District.”

After extensive deliberation, the bill was read for the second time and referred to the Senate Committee on Science and Technology for further legislative action.

On the objectives of the bill, Senator Iya explained that it is an offshoot of the National Science and Technology Development Agency Decree No. 5 of 1977, which listed the Project Development Institute under order 1 (1), paragraph (b) of the decree.

He outlined several key objectives of the bill, including: 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 to services through timely research analysis, which aids in identifying, disseminating, and adapting technological solutions.

Building public trust in engineering, technology, and science, with a focus on sustainable development.