Education Minister Advocates for Research Commercialization

Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, Nigeria's Education Minister, called on universities and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to commercialize research to drive economic transformation. Speaking in Abuja, he presented to Vice-Chancellors and academic directors about partnering with NASENI through the proposed NASENI Campus.

This initiative aims to connect researchers with advanced laboratories and industry, ensuring that research outputs do not remain as mere academic publications. Alausa stressed the importance of patenting inventions and developing them into marketable products, which can lead to viable companies.

He urged NASENI to strengthen ties with universities, leveraging their expertise to bridge the gap between research and commercial success. Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, outlined the agency's efforts to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directive for innovations to reach production stages.

The University of Abuja's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, highlighted the successful partnership with NASENI, which has led to the establishment of various agricultural facilities.