EU ambassador backs Nigeria’s science ecosystem

… says Nigeria–EU Science day will boost research, innovation ties

Nigeria’s scientific and innovation ecosystem holds immense potential, according to the Ambassador of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, who has announced that the Nigeria–EU Science & Innovation Day will take place in Lagos on 24 February 2026.

The high-profile event, organised in partnership with the Government of Nigeria, is expected to convene researchers, innovators, policymakers, investors and creative thinkers under the theme ‘Making Science Together’, signalling a renewed push to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and Europe in building science ecosystems that are resilient, inclusive and results-driven.

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The gathering will be hosted at the iconic National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, at a time when Nigeria and the EU are strengthening cooperation in science, technology and innovation through initiatives such as the Global Gateway partnership framework. The platform is designed to provide a shared space for exchanging ideas, showcasing talent and translating ambition into tangible action.

Announcing the event, Mignot underscored the importance of partnership in building sustainable scientific progress. He noted that strong science ecosystems are not built in isolation, but grow when institutions, people and creativity are linked through trust, openness and sustained investment.

“The Nigeria–EU Science & Innovation Day reflects a shared belief that science and innovation are strongest when partnerships are deep, inclusive, and built for long-term impact,” Mignot said.

Expressing optimism about the country’s research and innovation landscape, he declared, “Nigeria’s scientific and innovation ecosystem holds immense promise. Through closer cooperation with Europe, we are strengthening the connections that allow ideas, talent, and solutions to move faster and further.

“By bringing together researchers, innovators, policymakers, and investors, this initiative helps turn shared ambition into collaboration that delivers practical results for society.”

The one-day engagement will feature high-level conversations and panel discussions, alongside a young researchers’ pitch session and a matchmaking meeting between Nigerian and European organisations aimed at fostering practical partnerships and real-world impact. The format will combine in-person participation with selected online engagement, widening access to stakeholders across both regions.

Reaffirming the EU’s long-term commitment to Nigeria’s development through knowledge exchange and innovation-driven growth, Ambassador Mignot stated, “For the European Union, cooperation on science and innovation is about investing in people and partnerships that can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria and Europe alike.

“The Nigeria–EU Science & Innovation Day is poised to spotlight the power of collaboration in unlocking Nigeria’s immense intellectual capital and accelerating solutions that serve both continents.”