The Federal Government has said it is working to establish a National Research and Innovation Council (NRIC) and the National Research Fund (NRF) to boost research and innovation in Nigeria.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, announced this in Abuja during a high-level policy dialogue aimed at strengthening national research and innovation funding structures, using Nigeria as a model for West Africa.

The three-day meeting brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss strategies to strengthen research funding.

Nnaji emphasized that the event marked a significant step towards the launch of the NRIC and NRF, initiatives that are expected to transform Nigeria’s research and innovation landscape and directly align with the government’s national agenda.

presidential support

While noting that the initiatives have the full support of President Bola Tinubu, the Minister stated:

“Let me convey President Tinubu’s full support for these initiatives.

“His administration’s eight-point agenda, focused on security, economy, agriculture, infrastructure, human capital development, social welfare, rule of law and foreign policy, highlights the importance of a knowledge-driven economy.”

• The Minister further revealed that President Tinubu has already sanctioned an inter-ministerial committee under the Office of the Vice President.

• This committee, he said, is preparing a draft memorandum of the Federal Executive Council for the formal establishment of the NRF.

• It is made up of representatives from key ministries and stakeholders who are working to create a robust framework for the proposed council and fund.

Bill in the National Assembly

Furthermore, Nnaji confirmed that the National Assembly is currently considering a bill for the creation of the NRIC and the NRF.

“This legislation is critical as it will formalize the council’s mandate and provide the legal basis for sustainable funding.” said.

• He added that the establishment of these institutions is critical to advancing Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation (STI) agenda as outlined in the 2022 STI Policy.

• The NRIC will be responsible for coordinating STI activities across various sectors and ministries, ensuring that projects are aligned with national priorities.

• Meanwhile, the NRF will fund strategic and competitive research projects that address both local and global challenges.

The Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), Professor Nicholas Ozor, also spoke at the event and urged the government to accelerate the establishment of the NRIC and NRF.

He highlighted the importance of prioritizing research, innovation and development in Nigeria’s national agenda.

“A thriving research environment is key to national growth. The NRIC will help set national research and development priorities, promoting a collaborative approach to innovation and mobilizing funding for critical areas.

“The NRF will ensure that sustainable resources are available for transformative research and technological advancement.” said.

The event was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from UNESCO, ATPS, African University of Science and Technology (AUST), members of the National Assembly, academia, civil society, industry private and international partners.

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