Abuja: UNESCO has urged stakeholders to ensure the implementation and effective use of the National Research and Innovation Fund (NRIF). The UN agency made the appeal at a 3-day consultation workshop on the operationalisation of Nigeria’s NRIF.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the NRIF would be operational under the project: “Strengthening UK-West Africa Science Technology and Innovation Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” also known as the Sankore Project. Sankore, named after a historical place of learning in West Africa, is a new accountable grant mechanism supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It is delivered in two work streams to enhance Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) systems in Nigeria and Ghana, implemented by UNESCO and Result For Development (R4D).
Dr. Enang Moma, National Professional Officer, Natural Science Sector, UNESCO, Abuja, stated that the project aimed to drive transformative change in Nigeria and Ghana by strengthening the STI ecosystem. “The programme will enhance data accessibility, foster open science, and advance the commercialisation of research, thereby empowering communities to leverage innovation for sustainable development and societal progress,” he said.
The STI agencies for the project’s implementation include the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion, National Biotechnology Development Agency, among others. Ms. Kornelia Tzinova, Head, Natural Science Sector, UNESCO Regional Office, Dakar, emphasized the importance of sustained political support and strong leadership from the involved agencies for the project’s success.
Tzinova highlighted that Ghana was already succeeding with the operationalisation of its National Research Fund, and the Sankore project offered a valuable opportunity for collaboration, peer learning, and experience sharing between the countries. “UNESCO stands ready to facilitate these exchanges of best practices, which we believe will strengthen outcomes and contribute to a more coherent and connected innovation landscape within and across West Africa,” she added.
Dr. Kingsley Udeh, Minister of STI, expressed optimism about the passage of the NRIF bill in the near future to facilitate innovative reforms in the country. Represented by Mr. Philip Ebiogeh, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Udeh noted that preparations for the bill’s sustainability should be prioritized. “Working in silos must give way to collaboration, top universities and research institutions should prepare for a new era of research funding driven by performance, relevance, collaboration, and measurable national impacts,” he stated.
Prof. Abubakar Sambo, President of the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS), pointed out that poor funding was limiting the nation’s ability to produce high-quality research, attract and retain scientific talent, and adapt global technologies, among other challenges.