The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to commercialising research outputs and adopting a market-driven research approach as a strategic response to Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN made this known while receiving a delegation from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)–Kuo Sharper Centre for Prosperity and Entrepreneurship( MIT KSC) on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
According to the Minister, the focus of the Federal Government is no longer limited to the production of academic research or patents, but on ensuring that scientific knowledge is translated into tangible economic value and improved wellbeing for Nigerians.
“Our mission goes beyond producing research papers or patents; it is about translating knowledge into tangible wealth and wellbeing for every Nigerian,” Dr. Udeh stated.
He explained that the present administration is prioritising industry-focused research, aimed at converting the needs of the productive sectors into viable products and services for commercialisation. This approach, he noted, will drive wealth creation, job opportunities for the nation’s teeming youth, and significantly reduce poverty.
Dr. Udeh reiterated that Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) vision is bold and clearly defined to position the country as a global scientific and innovation powerhouse. This ambition, he said, is firmly anchored in the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTIP 2022), which provides the strategic framework for leveraging STI to build a strong, diversified, sustainable, and competitive economy.
The Minister further stressed that, innovation cannot thrive in isolation, noting that the government has put in place structures to promote alignment, coordination, and synergy across all sectors of the economy for the benefit of citizens.
“Nigeria is open for business, innovation, and partnerships. We believe Africa’s prosperity will be built by Africans, in collaboration with global allies who share our vision of inclusive and sustainable growth,” the Minister added.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Ms. Dina Sherif, said the visit was aimed at gaining firsthand insight into Nigeria’s STI vision and the priority areas of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) under the Minister’s leadership. She also noted that the delegation sought to understand how the Ministry collaborates with other ministries, agencies, universities, and the private sector to build a coherent national innovation agenda and strengthen pathways for research commercialisation.
Signed
Mrs. Pauline Sule,anipr
Head, Press & PRU
