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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The European Union (EU) said on Friday, that it is advancing a new chapter in its collaboration with Nigeria to strengthen the country’s research and innovation ecosystem, with a focus on digital transformation, climate resilience, and sustainable growth.
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, stated this at the University of Lagos 18th Annual Research Conference.
The EU Ambassador underscored the role of research in driving inclusive and transformative progress, and also noting that the EU’s partnership with Nigeria is built on shared priorities, empowering scientists, innovators and young researchers to turn knowledge into impact across critical sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy and health.
He said: “Science is most efficient when it is universal, not when it bumps into borders. The European Union and its Member States are investing in research that advances the same green, digital, and inclusive transition we are pursuing in Europe, and we are proud to work with Nigeria to achieve this.”
The Ambassador further announced that the European Commission has also proposed opening negotiations with Nigeria on a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Agreement.
He explained that the proposed accord will create new pathways for joint research projects, academic exchange, and investment in technology infrastructure.
“This agreement will help bring our researchers, innovators, and universities even closer together. It will also strengthen Nigeria’s role in the global innovation landscape and open more opportunities for young researchers and entrepreneurs,” he said.
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He drew attention to the EU’s flagship Horizon Europe programme, a nearly €100 billion initiative that funds research and innovation across continents, stressing that Nigerian researchers are eligible to participate.
He explained: “Horizon Europe is open to Nigerian researchers because the pursuit of knowledge belongs to all humankind. When science connects people, it builds a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable world.”
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola commended the EU for its support, describing the collaboration as a milestone in Nigeria’s drive to strengthen its research capacity and harness innovation for development.
She tasked Africa to embrace innovation that responds and solve the various socioeconomic, political, security, and several other challenges.
She added: “Partnerships like this enable us to translate research into practical solutions, from sustainable energy to health and Artificial Intelligence (AI) that improve lives and empower communities.”
She added that the university is investing in a Human-Centred AI Research Hub focused on ethical and inclusive innovation. “AI offers Africa not just a chance to catch up but to lead in shaping the future,” she said.
Salami Mayowa Michael, a PhD. candidate in estate management at the University of Lagos, also shared his perspective. “AI is changing everything about how we learn and research.
“We can now access data, collaborate across continents, and even conduct property evaluations with drones. The EU’s support will give us the opportunity to leverage these tools more effectively and transform the way we teach, learn, and innovate.”
