The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is shifting focus from theory to action—championing research that directly tackles everyday challenges faced by Nigerians, especially young people.
During a visit from a delegation of Lancaster University, United Kingdom, NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, stressed that research must stop being something that stays on the shelf. “Nigeria and Africa are not investing enough in research,” Inuwa said. “If we want real change, we need research that leads to real-world solutions.”
Rather than simply discussing innovation, the meeting explored how to turn ideas into tools and businesses under the Research and Innovation Partnership for Entrepreneurship (RIPE) programme. This initiative is aimed at connecting academics, businesses, and government to build solutions that support job creation and economic growth.
Inuwa pointed to agriculture as an example. “Many farmers don’t have access to the data and tools that could help them grow more food efficiently. That’s the kind of problem research should be solving,” he explained.
He said emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, and robotics can be used to solve Nigeria’s local problems if there is stronger teamwork among universities, industries, and government.
But Inuwa wasn’t just talking tech. He also called on Nigerian universities to teach students what they actually need to thrive in today’s job market. “We can’t have students graduating without the skills to solve real problems,” he said.
The DG linked this push for research-driven innovation to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which outlines eight national goals—from food security to digital innovation. NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan 2.0 supports this agenda by focusing on areas like digital literacy, cybersecurity, inclusive internet access, and building strong partnerships.
Professor Kirk Semple, who led the Lancaster University team, said universities are now being asked to do more than teach—they must prove their research can solve society’s biggest challenges. He described the RIPE programme as a bridge connecting research to real-life results.
“This partnership is not just academic,” Semple said. “It’s about changing lives.”
