Akwa Ibom State Government says it is set to deepen economic and technological ties with South Korea, as Governor Umo Eno listed Artificial Intelligence (AI), smart agriculture and the blue economy as key areas for collaboration.
Governor Eno stated this on Friday at the Permanent Site of the University of Uyo, Nwaniba, during a public lecture by the South Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Jeong Yo-an, on AI, smart agriculture and blue economy development.
Represented by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the governor said Akwa Ibom was open to investors from South Korea and other parts of the world who were willing to establish industries, create jobs and develop sustainable businesses in the state, noting that the existing over $2.1 billion trade volume between Nigeria and South Korea provided room for deeper economic engagement.
“Akwa Ibom State can be a beneficiary of this mutual relationship. Artificial Intelligence, smart agriculture and the Blue Economy are areas of interest to my administration as we work towards the transformation of our State.” He said
Eno said his administration was already investing in human capital development through youth development centres across the state, while initiatives in agriculture, security and maritime infrastructure were being pursued to diversify the economy and expand opportunities for the people.
Speaking on South Korea’s transformation from a war-ravaged and relatively poor nation into a global industrial and technological power, Ambassador Yo-an said Nigeria could draw important lessons from the country’s development experience, particularly its emphasis on education, human capital, technology, infrastructure and industrialisation.
“The Korean experience shows that deliberate investment in education, human capital, technology and innovation can transform a nation and create sustainable prosperity.”
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Prof. Chris Ekong, said the institution was committed to preparing graduates for the changing demands of the global economy.
Also speaking, former Deputy Governor and ex-NDDC Managing Director, Obong Nsima Ekere, urged the university to pursue strategic partnerships with South Korean institutions. Ekere stressed that human capital, innovation, discipline and strong institutions, rather than natural resources alone, were the foundation of sustainable development.
“Natural resources alone cannot guarantee prosperity; human capital development, innovation, discipline and strong institutions are critical drivers of sustainable economic growth.”
On his part, the UNIUYO Pro- Chancellor, Dr Muiz Banire, urged the institution to explore opportunities for incorporating AI-focused programmes and initiatives into its academic offerings.
The event was attended by members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council, university officials and other stakeholders.
