Fesochukwu Jason
The Federal Government is turning to research and innovation as a key driver of economic growth with the launch of a N12 billion Digital Economy Research Fund aimed at shaping future jobs, policies, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
The initiative, unveiled by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, is designed to position universities and researchers at the centre of Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
Rather than focusing solely on infrastructure, the programme seeks to generate practical ideas that will influence policymaking, strengthen institutions, and create sustainable economic opportunities.
According to the minister, the fund will support the establishment of six specialised research clusters covering critical areas such as artificial intelligence, digital skills development, online trust, digital jobs, and public digital services.
The initiative is backed by Project BRIDGE, a federal programme aimed at expanding nationwide connectivity through the deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure.
Tijani noted that while Nigeria is making significant investments in digital infrastructure, the real value lies in how effectively those investments are translated into inclusive growth and real-world impact.
He emphasised that many digital policies have historically been shaped by short-term political and market considerations, rather than data-driven research and long-term planning.
To address this gap, the government plans to engage a network of over 200 researchers, including postdoctoral fellows and PhD candidates, working under the leadership of up to 36 professors from Nigerian universities in collaboration with international partners.
The goal, according to the minister, is not just to produce academic work but to deliver actionable insights that can guide national development and improve the quality of governance.
He described the programme as a strategic effort to ensure Nigeria does not only adopt technology but also contributes ideas that will shape the global digital economy.
The ministry has invited universities and research institutions to submit proposals to either lead or collaborate within the research clusters, with further engagement expected through a nationwide briefing for academic stakeholders.
The initiative signals a shift in Nigeria’s digital strategy—placing greater emphasis on knowledge creation, innovation, and human capital development as the foundation for long-term economic transformation.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.