Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the Chairman of the Senate committee on the Nigerian Navy, says the evolving collaboration between Nigeria and Finland will yield vast benefits fort the advancement of the nation’s tech, energy and healthcare sectors.
Sen. Daniel, the president of the Nigeria-Finland Association, made the remarks at a reception he hosted in honour of an illustrious Nigerian and a notable physician, Dr. Kingsley Akinroye, on Saturday in Abuja. Dr. Akinroye was recently honoured with the award of Knight First Class of the Order of the Lion of Finland by the Finnish government.
At the well attended event, Sen. Daniel, who is also a former governor of Ogun State, thanked the Finnish government for finding a Nigerian worthy of the prestigious award, noting that it is a significant gesture in cementing fruitful partnership between Nigeria and the European nation.
“The potential for collaboration between Nigeria and Finland is vast and promising,” Daniel said. “By leveraging our respective strengths and expertise, we can create meaningful partnerships that drive progress and prosperity for both our nations. I am confident that by working together, we can achieve great things and build a brighter future for our citizens,” he added.
Expatiating further, Daniel, a professional engineer whose firm Kresta Laurel has been solely distributing Finland-based Kone elevators in Nigeria, asserted that “Finland’s expertise in technology and innovation aligns well with Nigeria’s ambition to develop a thriving tech industry.” He noted that by fostering collaboration in the fields of information technology, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship, the two countries can promote the exchange of knowledge and skills, ultimately driving economic growth and creating opportunities for our citizens.
“Furthermore, the renewable energy sector offers significant potential for cooperation. Nigeria, with its abundant solar and wind resources, stands to benefit from Finland’s leadership in sustainable energy solutions and green technology. By partnering to develop renewable energy projects and sharing expertise in energy efficiency, we can make substantial progress in addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability,” emphasized.
“Moreover, the healthcare sector presents an important opportunity for collaboration. Finland’s advanced healthcare system and expertise in medical research can be leveraged to support Nigeria’s efforts to improve public health, healthcare infrastructure, and medical training.”
Also speaking at the event, the Finland ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Leena Pylvänäinen, stressed that the award bestowed on Dr. Akinroye was a demonstration of her country’s recognition of excellence and an abiding belief in partnering with Nigerians and the Nigerian government in areas of mutual benefits.
Among the dignitaries who attended the reception were the representative of the minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yussuf Tuggar, legal luminary JK Gadzama, SAN, former vice chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, the traditional ruler of Apomu, HRH Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, the chairman of Imo Council of Elders and traditional ruler of Obinugwu, HRH Eze Cletus Ikechukwu Ilomuanya, and member representing Ayedaade/Isokan/Irewole Federal Constituency, Hon. Lanre Olomololaye.
