He made the call during a working visit by a delegation from Lancaster University, United Kingdom, led by Professor Kirk Semple, director of International Research, to NITDA’s corporate headquarters in Abuja.

The visit centred on exploring avenues for strategic collaboration under the Research and Innovation Partnership for Entrepreneurship (RIPE) programme, an initiative aimed at leveraging academic research and innovation to spur entrepreneurial development and economic transformation.

Addressing the delegation, Inuwa noted that Nigeria and Africa broadly face a significant research investment gap that continues to hinder the continent’s progress toward building knowledge-based economies.

“For us to build a robust and sustainable economy, we need to invest in research. That is where we have a huge gap in Nigeria and Africa at large, we don’t invest in research,” he said.

Using agriculture as a case in point, Inuwa observed that many Nigerian farmers lack access to critical data and digital tools that could revolutionise productivity and resource efficiency. He stressed that research and development (R&D) are foundational to solving such sector-specific challenges and to informing policies and regulations that can accelerate digital transformation.

Inuwa further outlined NITDA’s focus on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), blockchain, robotics, and additive manufacturing, noting that these technologies hold vast potential for solving local problems and creating new economic opportunities.

“The goal is to create a vibrant technology-research ecosystem that unites academia, industry, government, entrepreneurs, and risk capital,” he stated.

He further emphasised the need to align university curricula with real world industry demands, encouraging institutions to develop talent capable of addressing practical challenges through innovation. Inuwa also called for better coordination among stakeholders, warning against the inefficiencies of duplicative efforts.

Inuwa also referenced the eight strategic pillars identified by the Federal Government as drivers of national development.

These include Reforming the economy for inclusive and sustainable growth, strengthening national security for peace and prosperity, boosting agriculture to achieve food security, unlocking energy and natural resources, enhancing infrastructure and transportation, focusing on education, health, and social investment, accelerating diversification through industrialisation and innovation, Improving governance and service delivery.

To support these priorities, Inuwa further highlighted NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 (SRAP 2024–2027), which is structured around eight complementary pillars. These include Foster Digital Literacy and Cultivate Talents, build a Robust Technology Research Ecosystem, Strengthen Policy Implementation and Legal Framework, Promote Inclusive Access to Digital Infrastructure and Services, Strengthen Cybersecurity and Enhance Digital Trust, Nurture an Innovative and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Forge Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration, and Cultivate a Vibrant Organisational Culture and an Agile Workforce in NITDA.

“We place a strong emphasis on research because without it, you can not develop effective policies or regulations that drive real change in the ecosystem,” Inuwa added.

The meeting marked a significant step forward in NITDA’s commitment to international collaboration, aligning with the broader objectives of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and positioning Nigeria to take a leadership role in the global digital economy through research-led innovation, DG stated.

In his earlier remarks, Professor Kirk Semple highlighted Lancaster University’s global research reputation and its commitment to strategic collaborations that deliver societal value. He described the (RIPE) programme as a vehicle for knowledge mobilisation moving beyond academic theory to practical application.

“Universities today are under pressure to demonstrate value beyond knowledge creation. Strategic partnerships like this with NITDA helps ensure research informed policy, supports innovation, and drives meaningful change in communities,” Semple said.

He also underscored the role of innovation in bridging the gap between academia and society, noting that universities serve as critical hubs for organisations especially those lacking R&D capabilities to access expertise and resources necessary for solving global issues like climate change, public health, and technological inequality.

Professor Semple concluded by affirming the importance of creating diverse, long-term networks that foster cooperation across sectors, emphasizing that the true measure of success lies in sustained impact rather than accolades.

Global South nations face unique challenges in bridging the gaps that have hindered their development and fostering innovation to propel them towards the forefront of the digital age.

By investing in education, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, research and development, and collaboration, these countries can leverage the power of technology to unlock their potential and drive inclusive growth.

This piece explores how Global South nations can overcome the barriers to development and embrace innovation to create a more prosperous and equitable future.

Innovation is essential and centrally positioned in this century for a variety of reasons. Firstly, the rapid pace of technological advancements and global competition has created a need for continuous innovation to stay ahead and remain relevant in the market.

Companies that fail to innovate risk becoming obsolete as competitors bring new and improved products and services to the market.

Functionally, innovation drives economic growth and creates new opportunities for job creation. By developing innovative products and services, companies can tap into new markets and create new revenue streams.

This, in turn, stimulates economic activity and spurs job growth as companies expand to meet the demand for their innovative offerings.

Essentially, innovation plays a crucial role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare.

Innovations in renewable energy, for example, can help reduce carbon emissions and combat global warming.

Similarly, advances in medical technology can improve healthcare outcomes and extend the quality of life for individuals around the world.

Examples of innovative companies that have thrived in this age include Tesla, which revolutionized the electric vehicle industry with its innovative technology and sleek designs, and Airbnb, which disrupted the traditional hotel industry by offering a new and unique way for travellers to find accommodation.

These companies have demonstrated the power of innovation in driving success and staying ahead in a competitive market.

Centrally, innovation is essential and functionally positioned in this century because it drives economic growth, creates new opportunities for job creation, and helps address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Companies that prioritize innovation and embrace new ideas are more likely to succeed and thrive in the rapidly changing landscape of the 21st century.

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, organizations face formidable challenges in minimizing the risk of failure and gaining a competitive edge.

Embracing innovation not only facilitates effective risk management but also empowers organizations to create robust competitive advantages.

By leveraging technological advancements and fostering a culture of innovation, organizations in both developed and developing countries can strengthen their market position and adapt to ever-evolving industry landscapes. In this context, exploring how innovation can enable organizations to mitigate risks and build sustainable competitive advantages becomes imperative.

Intriguingly, Innovation plays a critical role in helping organizations minimize the risk of failure and create robust competitive advantages in several ways:

1. Adaptation to changing market conditions: Innovation allows organizations to continuously adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences. By staying ahead of trends and developments, companies can avoid being left behind and losing market share to competitors.

2. Diversification of product offerings: Innovation enables organizations to diversify their product offerings and explore new markets. By developing a range of innovative products and services, companies can reduce their reliance on a single product or market, thus minimizing the risk associated with dependence on a single revenue stream.

3. Increased efficiency and cost savings: Innovation can lead to the development of more efficient processes, technologies, and products, which can result in cost savings for organizations. By streamlining operations and improving efficiency, companies can reduce their overhead costs and gain a competitive edge in the market.

4. Differentiation from competitors: Innovation helps organizations differentiate themselves from competitors by offering unique and innovative products or services. By developing new and innovative solutions to meet customer needs, companies can create a competitive advantage that sets them apart in the market.

5. Enhanced brand reputation: Organizations that are known for their commitment to innovation and creativity can build a strong brand reputation that attracts customers and investors. A reputation for innovation can help companies attract top talent, secure partnerships, and gain the trust of consumers, ultimately leading to long-term success and sustainability.

Coverall, by prioritizing innovation and fostering a culture of creativity and experimentation, organizations can minimize the risk of failure, create robust competitive advantages, and position themselves for long-term success in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

In the context of today’s dynamic and rapidly evolving business environment, gaining a competitive edge and navigating the future of work require a keen understanding of how innovation intersects with various theories of technological growth and the imperative of unfailing productivity.

As organizations strive to stay ahead in the market, they must harness innovative technologies and practices to drive efficiency, agility, and sustainable growth.

By embracing a culture of continuous innovation and leveraging cutting-edge tools and strategies, businesses can not only adapt to changing market dynamics but also establish a unique position that ensures long-term success.

In exploring the symbiotic relationship between innovation, technological advancements, and productivity theories, organizations can pave the way for sustained competitiveness and relevance in a dynamic global landscape.

The landscape keeps evolving regarding the future of work, and innovation is crucial for organizations to maintain a competitive edge and drive productivity in the face of technological advancements.

Various theories of technological growth, such as the Solow-Swan model and the endogenous growth theory, emphasize the importance of innovation in driving long-term economic growth and productivity.

Innovation allows organizations to leverage emerging technologies and practices to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and drive continuous improvement.

By investing in research and development, fostering a culture of creativity, and embracing cutting-edge technologies, companies can stay ahead of the curve and adapt to shifting market dynamics.

Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, automation, and the Internet of Things, are reshaping the way we work and creating new opportunities for innovation and productivity gains. Organizations that harness these technologies effectively can optimize their operations, improve decision-making, and deliver value to customers in new and innovative ways.

Moreover, the practice of unfailing productivity relies on a commitment to continuous improvement, efficiency, and effectiveness. Innovation plays a key role in driving productivity by enabling organizations to identify bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and eliminate wasteful practices.

By embracing innovative tools and technologies, companies can enhance their productivity, drive growth, and remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic business environment.

Ultimately, the future of work will be defined by organizations’ ability to embrace innovation, adapt to technological advancements, and drive unfailing productivity in all aspects of their operations. By staying agile, fostering a culture of innovation, and leveraging emerging technologies, companies can position themselves for success and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving global marketplace.

Of paramount, in exploring the path to development and prosperity for Global South nations, the role of technological innovation emerges as a beacon of hope and progress.

As these regions strive to bridge the gaps that have historically hindered their growth and development, the transformative power of innovation presents a unique opportunity to catalyse change and unlock new possibilities for sustainable advancement.

By harnessing the potential of technology to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance social welfare, these nations can position themselves on a trajectory towards a future where progress is not a distant dream but a tangible reality.

Undoubtedly, Global South nations face numerous challenges that have hindered their development and technological innovation. To bridge the gaps and foster innovation, several key strategies can be implemented:

1. Invest in education and skills development: Enhancing the quality of education and training programs is crucial for building a skilled workforce capable of driving technological innovation. By investing in STEM education, vocational training, and lifelong learning opportunities, Global South nations can equip their citizens with the skills needed to participate in the digital economy.

2. Build infrastructure and connectivity: Access to reliable infrastructure, including electricity, internet connectivity, and transportation networks, is essential for fostering technological innovation. Investing in digital infrastructure and expanding access to broadband internet can help bridge the digital divide and enable businesses to leverage technology for growth and competitiveness.

3. Foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation: Creating a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation is key to unlocking the potential of local talent and driving economic growth. By providing access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, Global South nations can empower entrepreneurs to launch and scale innovative ventures that address local challenges and drive sustainable development.

4. Strengthen research and development capabilities: Investing in research and development (R&D) is critical for driving technological innovation and fostering competitiveness. By supporting universities, research institutions, and industry collaborations, Global South nations can enhance their capacity for innovation and develop homegrown solutions to local and global challenges.

5. Promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing: Building partnerships with the private sector, academia, and international organizations can help Global South nations access expertise, technology, and funding needed to drive innovation. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across sectors and borders, countries can accelerate their progress towards achieving sustainable development goals.

Overall, bridging the gaps that make Global South nations underdeveloped requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of inequality, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to resources.

By investing in education, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, R&D, and collaboration, these countries can harness the power of technological innovation to drive inclusive growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for their citizens.

In conclusion, the path to technological innovation and sustainable development for Global South nations lies in a comprehensive and collaborative approach that addresses the underlying barriers to progress.

By investing in education and skills development, building robust infrastructure, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, strengthening research and development capabilities, and promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing, these countries can harness the power of technology to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for their citizens.

As we look towards the future, Global South nations need to prioritize innovation as a key driver of competitiveness and build a resilient foundation that will propel them towards a more prosperous and sustainable future. [Featured Image Credit]

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The presentation which took place at Technology Orientation Centre (TOC), NASENI headquarters, Abuja recently was witnessed by the Agency’s top management led by Research Directors which marked the culmination of a collaborative effort that began in April 2023 when NASENI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three professors from the universities.

Professor Abass Alade, Department of Chemical Engineering, LAUTECH, research focused on “Treatment of Aquaculture Waste Water Using Waste Banana and Plantain Stem Juice Composite Through Integrated Filtracoagulation Cascade System”; Associate Professor Jimoh Oladejo Tijani, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State on “Development of Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes-Iron Tungstate Composite for Industrial Wastewater Purification” while Dr. Sanusi Kolawole, Department of Pure and Applied Physics, LAUTECH, focused on “Development of Nano-coating Green Urea Fertilizer for Agricultural Production Enhancement”, respectively.

Mr. Khalil Halilu, the executive vice chairman/Chief Executive of NASENI, represented by Research Director, Dr Samuel O. Olusunle, in his welcome address, appreciated the professors for making judicious use of the funds for publication of their research works and development of the products.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Professor Abass Alade expressed gratitude for the opportunity saying:

“we are happy to have this great chance to show who we are and what we have done, and we deeply appreciated every input from NASENI, which has added to our body of knowledge and expanded our capacity.”

He also talked about key achievements of the projects such as Agency-academia linkage as feasible and sustainable; facility development in the areas of acquisition of equipment and resources; and human resource development of undergraduates and postgraduates who participated in the research works.

He called for funding from NASENI to further mass produce the products and to commercialize them thorough the tripartite relationship between NASENI, academia and private sector operators.

NASENI Research Director, Dr. Patrick Okwu who thanked the researchers for their partnership, encouraged them to include production costs in their next presentations to make the information more accessible to the general public.

On his part, NASENI Research Director, Engr. Prof. Abdulmalik Onuwe, expressed enthusiasm for the NASENI-university collaboration and emphasized the importance of expanding the research deliverables to benefit the manufacturing sector.

In his vote of thanks, Deputy Director and Head of the Research Laboratory Development Department, Science Infrastructure Directorate, NASENI, Dr. Bakare Hassan Oladipo, expressed gratitude to the EVC/CEO for the collaboration saying, “This showcase underscores NASENI’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration between Nigeria’s top academic institutions and the Agency’s research and development efforts.”