FG restates commitment to research, innovation

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to deepening investments in research, innovation, and skills acquisition as critical drivers of Nigeria’s socioeconomic development.

It stressed that the country cannot overcome poverty, food insecurity, and the adverse effects of climate change without harnessing the power of knowledge and technology.

Minister of State for Humanitarian and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Sununu, made this known on Saturday at the 3rd Annual Scientific Conference and Alumni General Meeting of the College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS), held at the College Auditorium of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto.

Addressing participants drawn from academia, industry, and the medical profession, Dr. Sununu explained that research is not a luxury but a necessity for any country aspiring to achieve meaningful progress.

According to him, without investing in knowledge production, no nation can truly address its domestic challenges or compete in the global economy.

Citing an example from his days in the House of Representatives, the minister recalled how a strategic shift in funding transformed the fortunes of the National Institute of Medical Research.

The institute, he said, once survived on a meagre $200,000 annual grant but, with increased government support and international collaboration, was able to attract $6 million in a single year.

“When you put money into research, you don’t lose; it comes back in the form of innovation, jobs, industries, and homegrown solutions. We need climate-resilient crops, livestock that can withstand disease, and technologies that respond to our own realities. That is how research can directly translate into food security, poverty reduction, and economic stability,” he said.

Sununu added that the 2025 Federal Budget has earmarked priority funding for research and innovation, emphasising that universities must work hand-in-hand with industries to ensure that findings do not remain on paper but are converted into practical solutions that improve lives and boost national revenue. He noted that strong academic-industry collaboration remains the missing link in Nigeria’s knowledge ecosystem.

Earlier in his remarks, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Abdulgafar Jimoh, described the conference themed ‘Innovations in Health Research and Practice for Sustainable Development in Nigeria’ as a platform for nurturing new ideas, advancing scholarship, and strengthening the future of medical education in the country.

Jimoh disclosed that more than 100 abstracts were submitted by researchers and health professionals for presentation, describing the volume and quality of submissions as evidence of the vibrant research culture at UDUS.

He also highlighted the college’s achievements, including pioneering the first kidney transplant in Sokoto and producing groundbreaking research widely cited in international medical journals.

“The college remains committed to addressing health challenges through innovation. By strengthening collaborations with teaching hospitals, government agencies, and development partners, we are determined to continue setting standards in medical research and training,” the provost said.

The event drew the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including the Vice Chancellor of UDUS, Prof. Bashiru Garba, who served as Special Guest of Honour, and the Chief Medical Director of UDUTH, Prof. Anas Ahmad Sabir, who co-hosted the occasion. Both lauded the conference as a bridge between theory and practice, urging young researchers to devote themselves to work that directly impacts society.

The scientific conference and alumni gathering also provided a rare opportunity for knowledge exchange, networking, and mentorship, with participants exploring how indigenous knowledge systems and modern technologies could be integrated to strengthen Nigeria’s health system and accelerate national development.

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