The Federal Government has opened a call for expressions of interest for a N12 billion initiative designed to strengthen research in Nigeria’s digital economy. The programme is structured around specialised research clusters and is part of a broader push to deepen innovation capacity and improve the country’s competitiveness in emerging technologies.
The fund will support coordinated research efforts across selected universities, with a focus on building practical solutions and advancing knowledge in key digital sectors. The clusters are expected to concentrate on priority areas such as artificial intelligence, connectivity challenges, and digital skills development, reflecting current gaps in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, had earlier emphasised the intent behind the initiative, stating, “At the moment, we are putting together about N12 billion to fund further research projects that are focused on the digital economy.”
He explained that the structure of the programme is deliberate and targeted. “We are setting up three research clusters of six universities, each one focused on artificial intelligence, another focused on the biggest issue in our nation today, which is connectivity, where we are investing significantly.”
He added, “Thirdly, because of our population, we are also funding another research cluster that is focused on digital skills and literacy.”
The government’s decision to invite expressions of interest signals a shift toward a more competitive and merit-driven allocation of research funding. Institutions and research groups will be required to demonstrate capacity, relevance, and alignment with national digital priorities before gaining access to the funds.
This initiative builds on previous interventions in the sector. According to Tijani, earlier efforts have already yielded measurable outcomes. “The Nigerian government is not just doing this as a show because immediately after ICEGOV last year, we funded over 55 research projects.”
The emphasis on collaboration across universities also reflects a policy direction aimed at breaking institutional silos. By grouping institutions into clusters, the government seeks to pool expertise, share infrastructure, and accelerate the translation of research into usable innovations.
Beyond research, the programme aligns with broader reforms in Nigeria’s digital policy framework. Authorities have repeatedly stressed that digital technologies are now central to economic growth and governance, and that sustained investment in research is critical to long-term development.
The initiative also complements plans to expand digital literacy and integrate technology skills into education and public service systems. Officials argue that without a strong research base, such reforms may lack the depth needed for lasting impact.
Overall, the call for expressions of interest represents a strategic attempt to channel public funding into high-impact research areas while encouraging competition, accountability, and collaboration among academic institutions. It underscores a growing recognition that Nigeria’s digital transformation will depend not only on infrastructure and policy, but also on the strength of its research ecosystem.
