Nigeria Commits to Creation of National Research, Innovation Council

On Nov 6, 2024

The Nigerian Government has committed to supporting the creation of the National Research and Innovation Council (NRIC) and the National Research Fund (NRF) in Nigeria.

Mr Uche Nnaji, Minister of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, made this commitment on Tuesday in Abuja at a high-level policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement to strengthen national research and innovation funding bodies across West Africa.

The Minister highlighted that the initiative is a significant step towards establishing the NRIC and NRF, which are set to transform Nigeria’s research and innovation landscape in alignment with the Federal Government’s agenda. He conveyed President Tinubu’s full backing, emphasising that the administration’s eight-point agenda—which includes security, economic growth, infrastructure, human capital development, and foreign policy—underscores the importance of a knowledge-driven economy.

At the two-day workshop on implementing Nigeria’s 2022 STI Policy and Open Science Recommendation, organised with UNESCO for STI experts across Nigeria. Here are key takeaways on our actions, progress and the expectations set by this workshop. pic.twitter.com/4RgakyRVul

— HM Uche Geoffrey Nnaji (@ChiefUcheNnaji) November 5, 2024

According to Nnaji, “President Bola Tinubu has approved an inter-ministerial committee, under the Vice President’s office, which is diligently working on a draft Federal Executive Council memo for establishing the NRF. This committee, which includes key ministries and stakeholders, is tasked with creating a robust framework for the initiatives.’’

Nnaji further noted that a bill for the establishment of the NRIC and NRF is currently under review by the National Assembly. He added that this legislation is crucial for formalising the council’s mandate and providing a legal basis for sustainable funding.

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The establishment of the NRIC and NRF aligns with Nigeria’s 2022 Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy and aims to address national socio-economic priorities. The NRIC will coordinate STI activities across sectors, ensuring projects align with national goals. The NRF will position STI as a national priority, fostering competitive projects that tackle both local and global challenges.

Prof. Nicholas Ozor, Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies (ATPS), urged the Federal Government to fast-track the establishment of the NRIC and NRF. He emphasised that setting national R&D priorities would ensure that research efforts support growth and enhance innovation. A sustainable funding mechanism, such as the NRF, would provide resources for transformative research and technological advancements.

The meeting was attended by stakeholders from UNESCO, the ATPS, the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Members of the National Assembly, academia, civil society, the private sector, and international partners.

NAN/Chidimma