The Federal Government of Nigeria is establishing a National Research and Innovation Council and a National Research Fund to drive innovation across the country. Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, announced this in Abuja at a policy dialogue focused on strengthening Nigeria’s research and innovation framework.
Nnaji highlighted that these initiatives, supported by President Bola Tinubu, align with the administration’s national agenda, emphasizing a knowledge-driven economy.
An inter-ministerial committee under the Office of the Vice President is already preparing a Federal Executive Council memo to formalize the fund, while a supporting bill is under review in the National Assembly.
Nnaji explained that the council will coordinate Science, Technology, and Innovation efforts, while the fund will support strategic research to address local and global challenges.
Experts, including Professor Nicholas Ozor of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, stress that these institutions are crucial for Nigeria’s growth, urging the government to prioritize and mobilize resources for innovation.