In a plenary session held on Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate moved forward with a significant legislative step by passing a bill for the establishment of the Projects Development Agency (PRODA) in Enugu.
This marks the second reading of the bill, which aims to create a platform for scientific, engineering, and technological research to drive domestication and industrialization of appropriate technology for Nigeria’s socio-economic advancement.
The bill, officially titled “An Act to provide for the establishment of Projects Development Agency (PRODA), Enugu,” was presented by Senator Ndubueze Patrick of Imo North.
Senator Ndubueze, in his lead debate, emphasized the pivotal role PRODA has played in Nigeria for over 53 years and underscored the necessity of establishing a dedicated agency for conducting training and technical research projects.
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Other senators voiced their support for the bill, highlighting its importance in facilitating project execution and advancing technological capabilities.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South, Senator Sirika Dickson of Bayelsa West, and Senator Mongunu of Bornu North were among those who advocated for the bill’s passage.
The Senate resolved to advance the bill to the next stage by referring it to the Committee on Science and Technology for further scrutiny.
The committee is expected to report back to the Senate within two weeks with their findings and recommendations.
In a related development during Tuesday’s plenary session, the Senate also passed the second reading of a bill aimed at establishing a federal polytechnic in Onueke, Ebonyi State.
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This bill, presented by Senator Eze Kenneth Emeka of Ebonyi Central Senatorial District, seeks to provide full-time courses in technology, applied sciences, management, and other fields of study.
Senator Ani Anothony Okorie of Ebonyi South Senatorial District emphasized the importance of specialized technical institutions in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
In a show of solidarity, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo Senatorial District echoed the sentiments, advocating for the establishment of functional polytechnics in every senatorial district across Nigeria.