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.
The NRIF would be operational under the project: ‘’Strengthening UK-West Africa Science Technology and Innovation Partnerships for Sustainable Development’’, also known as Sankore Project.
Sankore, named after a historical place of learning in West Africa, is a new accountable grant mechanism supported by UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
It is delivered in two work streams to strengthen Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) systems in Nigeria and Ghana.
The two work streams are being implemented by UNESCO and Result For Development (R4D).
Dr Enang Moma, National Professional Officer, Natural Science Sector, UNESCO, Abuja, said the project targeted to drive transformative change in Nigeria and Ghana by strengthening 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 implementation of the project, she said, included Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion, National Biotechnology Development Agency and others.
Ms Kornelia Tzinova, Head, Natural Science Sector, UNESCO Regional Office, Dakar, said the success of the project was dependent on sustained political support and strong leadership from the agencies involved.
“It is also crucial to anchor this project within national development frameworks to ensure its success and maximize benefits for the people of Nigeria,’’ she said.
She said that Ghana was already succeeding with the operationalisation of Ghana National Research Fund, adding that the Sankore project presented 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 said.
Dr Kingsley Udeh, Minister of STI, expressed optimism on the passage of the NRIF bill in the nearest future to facilitate innovative reforms in the country.
Represented by Mr Philip Ebiogeh, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Udeh said that ahead of the assent to the bill, preparations should be on top gear for its sustainability.
“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.
“The NRIF will reward excellence and problem-solving research, open new opportunities for research partnerships, technology adaptation and investment in our startups,’’ he said.
Prof. Abubakar Sambo. President Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) said the poor funding was limiting the nation’s ability to produce high quality research, attract and retain scientific talent, adapt global technologies, among other interventions.
“To make NRIF effective we must ensure that it is not just a funding pool but part of a broader innovation ecosystem from multiple sources like government budget allocations, private sector contributions, philanthropic foundations,’’ he canvassed. (NAN) www.nanews.ng
Edited by Uche Anunne
