The Federal Government has unveiled the N12bn digital economy research fund to strengthen policy-driven innovation. The initiative targets universities as central research partners nationwide.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The fund is designed to support Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.
The minister announced the initiative alongside a call for expressions of interest. The programme will establish National Digital Economy Research Clusters.
The fund is supported by Project BRIDGE. It will finance large-scale research across priority areas of the digital economy.
“Today my heart is filled with deep joy as we announce the Expression of Interest for the National Digital Economy Research Clusters, a N12 billion research funding scheme designed to place ideas, evidence, and research at the centre of Nigeria’s digital transformation,” Tijani said.
The initiative aims to connect Nigerian academics with international partners. The collaboration is expected to generate policy-relevant insights. The programme will also support institutional capacity development.
According to the minister, the fund complements ongoing infrastructure expansion efforts.
He referenced the planned deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic backbone. The government expects connectivity improvements to support digital services.
Research-driven approaches will guide distribution of benefits. The initiative links infrastructure development with evidence-based policymaking.
The programme will operate through six national research clusters. These clusters will focus on connectivity and meaningful use.
Other areas include digital public infrastructure and government services. Additional themes cover digital skills and human capital.
The clusters will also address digital economy and jobs. Online trust, consumer protection, and artificial intelligence are included.
Each cluster will be led by up to 36 professors. The leaders will be drawn from Nigerian universities. The programme will involve global academic partners.
Over 200 researchers are expected to participate. These include postdoctoral fellows and PhD candidates. The research outputs are expected to shape policy and strengthen institutions.
The initiative positions universities at the centre of national digital planning. Academic institutions will generate research-based recommendations.
Government agencies are expected to use findings for policymaking. The collaboration aims to strengthen institutional coordination. It also supports knowledge-driven digital development.
Officials said additional engagement will follow the announcement. A press conference will be held in coming days.
Vice-chancellors and research institutions will be invited. The engagement will provide operational details. It will also clarify participation guidelines.
The N12bn digital economy research fund forms part of broader reforms. The government continues to expand digital infrastructure nationwide.
Research clusters will guide implementation strategies. Universities will contribute to evidence-based policy development. The initiative aligns digital investments with national development priorities.
