FG, Türkiye deepen ties to drive research-to-market innovation

By Chinenye Anuforo

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to strengthen innovation-driven economic growth, advancing high-level discussions with the Republic of Türkiye on translating research outcomes into viable market solutions.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, disclosed this during strategic engagements in Türkiye, held on the sidelines of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to the country.

Udeh said the collaboration reflects Nigeria’s resolve to move beyond research for knowledge’s sake and focus on innovation that delivers measurable economic and social impact. He noted that Türkiye’s success in commercialising research through effective technology transfer systems and strong private-sector participation offers valuable lessons for Nigeria’s evolving innovation ecosystem.

In a statement issued by the Director, Media and Corporate Communications of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Felix Ale, the Minister explained that Nigeria is developing a clear, actionable framework to support structured research-to-market pathways between both countries, aimed at transforming scientific discoveries into scalable commercial products.

According to him, the proposed collaboration will prioritise joint research and development, innovation financing, capacity building, startup incubation and industrial scale-up, with the overarching goal of strengthening Nigeria’s innovation landscape and boosting its global competitiveness.

Udeh stressed that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, which places science, technology and innovation at the centre of economic diversification and sustainable development.

He described the engagement as a significant step towards deepening international cooperation in science and technology, while positioning Nigeria to harness innovation as a catalyst for industrial growth and national development.

The Minister was accompanied on the visit by the Director-General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, underscoring the strategic role of space science and technology in the ongoing discussions.

Udeh added that NASRDA will play a fundamental role in the proposed research-to-market framework, particularly in driving innovation, technology transfer and the commercialisation of research outputs critical to national development.

Speaking during a visit to an Innovation and Technology Park in Türkiye, the NASRDA Director-General said there are opportunities to explore tripartite partnerships involving NASRDA, university research hubs and industry.

Adepoju noted that the agency could also explore collaborations in emerging areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence and software development, while encouraging Nigerian startups to build globally competitive solutions.

According to him, such partnerships would be of immense benefit to Nigeria’s space enterprise and broader technology ecosystem, positioning the country for stronger participation in the global innovation economy.