Oyo State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Innovation, Scientific Advancement

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed the importance of scientific innovation, technological advancement and youth development as essential drivers of sustainable growth.

The Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, made this known while delivering an address as a specially invited guest speaker at the 2026 Robotics Competition of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), Oyo State Chapter.

The competition, held at the Olola F.O. Ogunlana Hall, University of Ibadan, brought together students to showcase their creativity and problem-solving abilities through robotics innovations and an inter-school debate on the theme, “AI and Robotics: Threat or Opportunity for Africa?”

Speaking at the event, Professor Adelabu highlighted the growing relevance of robotics and artificial intelligence to industrial development, productivity and global competitiveness. He noted that technological innovation has become an important driver of modern economic advancement, making it necessary for young people to acquire relevant knowledge and practical skills to prepare for emerging opportunities in a rapidly changing world.

The Commissioner emphasised the value of connecting academic knowledge with practical innovation, encouraging students to develop their talents, think creatively and explore scientific solutions to real-life challenges. He also underscored the importance of exposing young people to hands-on learning, experimentation and technological development from an early age, noting that such experiences can nurture curiosity, strengthen critical thinking and inspire future scientists, engineers and technology entrepreneurs.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of gifts by Professor Adelabu to the students and schools that emerged first, second and third in the competition. He congratulated the winners on their achievements, encouraged them to remain committed to learning and innovation, and took photographs with the award recipients to celebrate their success.

St. Bernadine’s Girls’ Grammar School, Oyo, was identified as the overall winner in the reported results, with student innovators Demilade and Tamilore associated with the school’s achievement. Their performance demonstrated the potential of young people to apply scientific knowledge and technical creativity to practical challenges.

The competition, organised by STAN Oyo State Chapter with support from sponsors and other stakeholders, provided a platform for students to demonstrate their technical abilities, research skills and analytical thinking while exploring the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies in Africa.

The Oyo State Government recognises that equipping young people with scientific knowledge, technical competence and the confidence to innovate is important to building a skilled and productive generation capable of contributing to the state’s development and Nigeria’s technological future.

Professor Adelabu’s participation and encouragement of the award-winning students reinforced the importance of recognising young talent and inspiring continued excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.