The research initiative represents a strategic launchpad toward a digital future that empowers citizens and transforms sectors across the economy.

Nigeria will launch 75 new research projects on October 1, 2025, as part of a broader push to deepen its digital ecosystem, foster innovation, and establish the country as a leading tech hub in Africa.

Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced the plan at GITEX Nigeria 2025 being held from September 1-4. The initiative, coordinated by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), targets researchers, startups, corporates, and the Nigerian diaspora.

“On October 1, there will be a research scheme that will support another 75 research projects. Such investments will reinforce Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy,” Tijani said. He added that startups and corporates should leverage government support to contribute to national and global innovation.

Tijani emphasized that robust digital infrastructure is now a vital national priority. He called for a shift in strategy beyond catching up with others to fostering resilient systems that sustain long-term innovation.

The October 1 research rollout continues a legacy of impactful initiatives from NITDA. In 2022, NITDA launched a blockchain scholarship program in partnership with Domineum Blockchain Solutions, training 30,000 Nigerians in blockchain technologies and offering top participants incubation opportunities in London.

At the 2024 Digital Nigeria Innovation Challenge, NITDA awarded ₦16 million in prizes. Top winner InfraMappers developed an AI-powered mapping solution to optimize healthcare facility distribution nationwide.

NITDA’s Research & Development Department, established in 2022, actively promotes emerging technologies — including AI, blockchain, and IoT — through collaboration, funding, and commercialization strategies. These successes underscore NITDA’s capacity for maximizing impact through research investments.

By investing in targeted research — especially in AI, fintech, e-health, and agri-tech — Nigeria can accelerate homegrown innovation that addresses real-world needs and boosts global competitiveness.

Supporting researchers, startups, and diaspora talent positions Nigeria to build a more inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem. The October research initiative represents a strategic launchpad toward a digital future that empowers citizens and transforms sectors across the economy.

Hikmatu Bilali