FG Launches N12 Billion Digital Economy Research Fund

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated an expression of interest for a N12 billion digital economy research fund scheme, as disclosed by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, in a statement issued on Saturday. This initiative aims to strengthen evidence-based policymaking in Nigeria's digital economy.

The Ministry invites academic and research institutions to submit proposals to lead collaborations across newly established research clusters. The program will focus on driving research-led policy decisions, particularly in the digital policy sector, which often lacks sufficient research input.

Six national research clusters will be established, led by 36 professors from Nigerian universities, working alongside international academic partners. The initiative is expected to generate 200 research outputs, including contributions from postdoctoral fellows and PhD candidates.

This program, first announced in November 2025, is part of the federal government's broader strategy to enhance Nigeria's position in the global digital landscape and support the deployment of 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic backbone infrastructure across the country.