By Dr. Odim Charles
Concerned stakeholders in Nigeria’s research and development ecosystem have expressed grave concern and unequivocal condemnation over the Federal Government’s recent emphasis on unveiling a N12 billion Digital Economy Research Fund, amid the continued absence of the National Research & Innovation Council (NRIC) Bill—an essential legislative framework consistently advocated by the Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions (ASURI).
While acknowledging the importance of investing in the digital economy, stakeholders note that the absence of a central coordinating mechanism such as the NRIC fundamentally undermines the effectiveness, transparency, and strategic alignment of any such funding initiative.
The NRIC Bill is widely recognised as a critical instrument for the coordination, regulation, and strategic direction of Nigeria’s research and innovation landscape. Its continued neglect raises serious questions about policy coherence and the Federal Government’s commitment to building a sustainable and globally competitive knowledge economy.
“Deploying substantial financial resources into research without an established national framework is both inefficient and potentially counterproductive,” the statement noted. “The NRIC would serve as the institutional backbone required to ensure that research funding is aligned with national priorities, properly managed, and delivers measurable outcomes.”
Stakeholders emphasised that the current approach risks fragmentation, duplication of efforts, and a lack of accountability—challenges that have historically hindered Nigeria’s progress in research and technological development.
The statement further questioned the justification of current presidential priorities in this regard, asserting that no meaningful advancement in the digital economy can be achieved without first establishing the necessary governance structures.
“There is an urgent need for the Presidency and the National Assembly to demonstrate leadership by fast-tracking the passage and implementation of the NRIC Bill. This is not merely a legislative necessity but a national imperative for sustainable development,” the statement added.
The group therefore calls for:
Immediate prioritisation and passage of the National Research & Innovation Council (NRIC) Bill.
Suspension and strategic review of the N12 billion Digital Economy Research Fund pending the establishment of a coordinating framework.
Inclusive stakeholder engagement involving ASURI and other key actors in shaping Nigeria’s research and innovation policies.
Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey. The choices made today regarding research governance and funding will have far-reaching implications for the nation’s economic competitiveness, technological independence, and global relevance.
The suspension of the unveiled N12 billion Digital Economy Research Fund is not only imperative but also serves as a caution for prudent implementation.
Dr. Odim Charles writes from Abuja.
