The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is set to prioritise the commercialisation of Nigeria’s research and development (R&D) outcomes to drive the nation’s socio-economic advancement.
Nnaji made this announcement while hosting a delegation from the Defence Research and Development Bureau, led by the director-general, Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Ndagi at his Abuja office.
Highlighting the significant strides made in R&D by the ministry and its agencies, Nnaji emphasised that collaboration would be essential to secure funding for the rapid and efficient commercialization of the country’s R&D products.
He further urged the organised private sector (OPS) to join forces with the ministry in a strategic partnership, aiming to transform R&D outputs into finished products and services. This concerted effort will help reduce the nation’s overdependence on imports and boost the gross domestic product (GDP).
The director-general of the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Ndagi shared insights into the agency’s mandate, which revolves around coordinating and funding research for the armed forces’ institutions and innovation centres across Nigeria. He underlined the purpose of their visit as reinforcing the existing partnership between the agency and the ministry. This collaboration will focus on leveraging R&D outputs to transition the nation’s economy from resource-based to knowledge-based.
Additionally, the Ndagi disclosed the potential for expanding collaboration with the ministry into areas like land, marine, and aerospace, which will further enhance national security.
The active focus on commercialising R&D products showcases the government’s commitment to harnessing research and innovation for sustainable economic growth and development.
