The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to homegrown technologies as key drivers of national transformation, stressing that science must reflect Nigeria’s realities to build trust and deliver tangible impact.
Speaking in Abuja during the 2025 World Science Day for Peace and Development, themed “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050,” Udeh said the Ministry is steering efforts towards locally developed innovations that enhance livelihoods, boost food security, and promote sustainability.
He noted that the administration’s science and innovation agenda aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, particularly in economic diversification, innovation-driven growth, job creation, and youth empowerment through Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
Highlighting examples of impactful innovations, the Minister cited the Tela Maize Initiative, implemented through the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, which has increased yields, improved insect control, and reduced post-harvest losses.
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He added that the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), has established cassava and potato processing facilities across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones to empower farmers, encourage agro-processing entrepreneurship, and minimise agricultural waste.
On renewable energy and import substitution, Udeh disclosed that the NBRDA has enhanced biodigesters to produce clean biogas and electricity from biomass waste, while the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has developed solar generators, cross-flow turbines, and locally produced single and three-phase meters.
“Homegrown technology that mirrors our own reality must be the driving force behind transformation.
“We have developed high-quality neem-based minero organic fertilizer, already in use by farmers in Northern Nigeria. This fertiliser improves soil health, lessens pest infestation, and increases food sustainability.
“The future of efficient and clean industry is being shaped by us. Through the Methanol Downstream Value Chain, we are creating opportunities for new chemical industries and cleaner transportation fuels, while our Multi-Chemical Production Plants across the six geopolitical zones will provide affordable industrial chemicals to support agriculture, SMEs, and education.”
He also revealed that the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) has created prototype machines for recycling plastic waste into durable building materials and is advancing bamboo-based building solutions for climate-resilient, affordable housing.
Further innovations, according to him, include a Carbon Monoxide Sensor to prevent generator-related deaths, self-triggering fire extinguishers, auto-gas car technology, and an accelerometer sensor for bridge vibration monitoring, all developed to enhance safety and sustainability.
Udeh emphasised that the Ministry is also investing in human capital development through Technology and Innovation Hubs and Model Science Laboratories established in each geopolitical zone, providing spaces for young innovators and researchers to collaborate and commercialise new ideas.
“Our path to 2050 is about making science reliable, approachable, inclusive, and influential,” he stated. “It is about ensuring that innovation represents our nation’s resilience, the potential of our youth, and the ambitions of our people.”
Acknowledging the synergy between culture and science, the Minister praised the participation of traditional leaders at the event, noting that cultural wisdom complements scientific knowledge in advancing inclusive innovation.
He also stressed that science lies at the heart of global frameworks such as the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Climate Agreement, the Sendai Framework, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, urging national alignment with these priorities for Nigeria’s effective contribution to global progress.
“Trust in science is built when people see clear, tangible benefits in their daily lives. That is the science we need for 2050, one that transforms communities, empowers people, and builds a sustainable tomorrow.”
