The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, has called for stronger collaboration between research institutions and industries to drive Nigeria's economic growth. Speaking at the National Concertation on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in Abuja, he stressed the need to harness STI for food security, healthcare, and economic diversification.
STI as a Driver of National Development
Dr. Udeh emphasized that sustainable development requires deliberate investment in science, technology, and innovation. He noted that the global economy is increasingly knowledge-driven, powered by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and green innovation. Despite Nigeria's potential, research outputs are not adequately translated into commercial products or socio-economic impact, highlighting the need for stronger coordination and implementation.
The Renewed Hope Agenda
The minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda offers an opportunity to reposition STI as a strategic driver of economic growth and job creation. He called for closer collaboration among government, universities, research institutions, industries, and development partners to strengthen Nigeria's innovation system. Key priorities include promoting research-to-industry partnerships, demand-driven innovation, and commercializing research outcomes.
“We are not just funding research for academic purposes; we are funding it to reach the market and industry,” Udeh stated, adding that government funding should catalyze private sector participation.
SHESTCO and UNESCO Collaboration
The event was organized by the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) and UNESCO. SHESTCO Director-General Hon. Magaji Aliyu noted that Nigeria must move from aspiration to practical implementation of STI. He identified the disconnect between research and socio-economic impact as a major challenge, requiring strategic collaboration and bold policy decisions.
Aliyu described the National Research and Innovation Fund (NRIF) as a strategic intervention to address fragmented funding. He pledged to advocate for the National Research and Innovation Council (NRIC) Bill to provide a legal framework for sustainable innovation financing.
UNESCO's Dr. Dimitri Sanga highlighted that STI is critical for poverty eradication and achieving the SDGs and AU Agenda 2063. He stressed the need for sound policies, institutional strengthening, and multi-dimensional collaboration among scientists, policymakers, industries, and civil society.
