House of Representatives Proposes National Research Fund

The House of Representatives has begun efforts to create a National Research and Innovation Development Fund aimed at addressing funding gaps, enhancing research capacity, and promoting the commercialization of indigenous innovations. This initiative includes the establishment of a National Council on Research and Innovation to coordinate research activities and support scientific discoveries.

Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas (Rep, Zaria), articulated these goals during a public hearing on the National Research and Innovation Development Fund and National Council on Research and Innovation Bill, 2026, held at the National Assembly in Abuja. Abbas, represented by Deputy House Leader Abubakar Halims, stressed that Nigeria must reduce its reliance on imported technologies.

He noted that the country has a wealth of talented researchers and entrepreneurs but lacks an effective system to connect research with funding and industry. Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Zakariya Zannah (Rep, Machina Nguruyusuf-Ar/Marasov), highlighted the bill's aim to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and market applications, urging stakeholders to examine key areas of the proposed legislation.