Abuja: The Federal Government says effective deployment of the National Research and Innovation Fund (NRIF) will unlock the potential of Nigerian youths and drive national development. The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), Mr. Philip Ebiogeh, made this statement at the Third Stakeholders’ Consultation Workshop on the operationalisation of the NRIF in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the workshop was organised by the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) in collaboration with UNESCO under the UK-West Africa Science, Technology and Innovation Partnerships for Sustainable Development (SANKORE Project). The theme of the workshop was ‘Setting the Foundation and Defining Strategic Pillars for Nigeria’s Five-Year Strategy (2026-2030)’. Ebiogeh highlighted that no nation could achieve sustainable growth without prioritising science, technology, and innovation.
Ebiogeh stated that once the document is finalised, the bill passed, and the fund established, it will elevate the country. He noted that Nigeria is rich in young innovators with significant potential, and this initiative will help highlight their talents. He stressed the importance of building internal capacity rather than depending on external support, and mentioned that the technical work and consultations indicate readiness to translate policy into institutional action.
He further noted that the full operationalisation of the NRIF requires the passage of the National Research and Innovation Council Bill by the National Assembly. Ebiogeh assured that the ministry is committed to this cause and expressed hope that the process would conclude before the last quarter of the year, pending timely legislative approval.
The Director-General of SHESTCO, Magaji Aliyu, described the proposed Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) bill as a crucial legal framework to guide STI programmes in Nigeria. He stated that the bill would establish governance structures and provide the legal backing needed for innovation-driven initiatives. Aliyu is optimistic that the legislation will receive swift approval and presidential assent once transmitted.
STI Consultant to UNESCO, Prof. Willie Siyanbola, mentioned that the policy review was initiated by UNESCO and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office after evaluating Nigeria’s 2012 STI policy. He noted that the new framework aims to stimulate transformative growth, strengthen research ecosystems, and contribute to poverty reduction through innovation-led development.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the NRIF is a proposed strategic funding mechanism intended to drive economic growth by supporting scientific research, technological advancement, and innovation. It is expected to facilitate sustainable funding for research and development, promote the commercialisation of innovations, and strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, positioning Nigeria as a knowledge-driven economy.