Academy urges increased investment in research, innovation

The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has urged federal and state governments to prioritise greater investment in scientific research, innovation and development as a strategic pathway to national growth and sustainable development. The Academy made the call in a statement signed by its President, Abubakar Sambo, and Public Affairs Secretary, Chinedum Babalola, noting that stronger […]

The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has urged federal and state governments to prioritise greater investment in scientific research, innovation and development as a strategic pathway to national growth and sustainable development.

The Academy made the call in a statement signed by its President, Abubakar Sambo, and Public Affairs Secretary, Chinedum Babalola, noting that stronger support for research systems is essential for addressing Nigeria’s development challenges.

According to NAS, the call comes amid concerns about limited investment in research and development, governance challenges within educational and research institutions, and increasing demand for science-driven solutions to national issues.

“The Nigerian Academy of Science is urging governments at all levels to prioritise investment in scientific research, innovation and development as key drivers of national growth and sustainable development,” the statement said.

The Academy noted that countries that have achieved sustained economic growth and technological competitiveness have done so through deliberate and long-term investments in science and research institutions.

It explained that investment in science should extend beyond funding specific projects to include the development of human capacity, improved research infrastructure and stronger institutional systems that support innovation.

“Investments in science must extend beyond funding projects to include human resources capacity building, investment in research infrastructure and the strengthening of institutional systems that underpin effective research and innovation,” NAS stated.

The Academy also highlighted the importance of sound governance in educational and research institutions, saying it plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability and operational efficiency.

NAS emphasised that appointments to governing councils of universities and research institutions should be guided by merit and relevant expertise.

“The appointment of chairmen and external members of governing councils of universities and research institutions should be based strictly on merit, with preference given to individuals who possess relevant academic qualifications and demonstrable experience in the governance and administration of tertiary institutions,” the statement said.

It noted that this approach would help ensure effective oversight, stability and institutional credibility.

The Academy further suggested that leadership positions in research institutes and science-based agencies should be held by individuals with appropriate technical expertise and proven research credentials.

“Leadership of research institutions and science-based agencies should be entrusted to individuals with appropriate technical expertise, proven research credentials and the capacity to advance national scientific and innovation objectives,” it said.

NAS also expressed concern over recent public debates surrounding some vice-chancellor appointments in universities, stressing the need for adherence to due process.

According to the Academy, strict compliance with established procedures and standard operating guidelines in appointments within universities and research institutions would help minimise disputes and strengthen institutional credibility.

“Institutional processes should follow due process and established procedures to ensure that decisions are merit-based, sustainable and credible,” the statement added.

The Academy said strengthening governance systems within research and higher education institutions would help position them to be more innovative, credible and globally competitive.

It therefore urged federal and state governments to adopt the Academy’s 2026 agenda, which seeks to promote stronger and better-managed investment in research and development.

“Governments at all levels should adopt the Academy’s 2026 agenda to ensure that investments in research are not only increased but also effectively managed, thereby fostering a national culture of excellence, accountability and innovation in science and technology,” NAS stated.