The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has urged federal and state governments to prioritise investment in scientific research, innovation and development as a critical driver of national growth and sustainable development.
NAS President, Abubakar Sambo, said in a statement that the call has become necessary amid persistent underinvestment in research and development, governance challenges within educational and research institutions, and a growing demand for science-based solutions to national issues such as climate change, public health, energy transition, food security and industrial competitiveness.
Sambo noted that countries that have achieved sustained economic growth and technological advancement have done so through deliberate, long-term investment in science, strong research systems and well-funded institutions.
He stressed that investments in science must go beyond funding individual projects to include human capital development, modern research infrastructure and institutional systems that support effective innovation.
According to him, proper governance in educational institutions and research institutes is essential to ensuring transparency, accountability and operational efficiency.
Sambo emphasised that appointments of chairmen and external members of governing councils of universities and research institutions should be strictly merit-based, with preference given to individuals possessing relevant academic qualifications and demonstrable experience in tertiary institution governance.
He added that such an approach would strengthen oversight, stability and institutional credibility.
The NAS president also raised concerns over the appointment of non-specialists as heads of research institutes and science-based agencies, urging that such decisions be reviewed where necessary.
He said leadership of research institutions should be entrusted to individuals with appropriate technical expertise, proven research credentials and the capacity to advance national scientific and innovation goals.
The Academy also expressed concern over irregularities in the appointment of vice-chancellors in recent times, calling for strict adherence to due process and established procedures in university governance.
Sambo maintained that strengthening institutional systems and following standard operating procedures would help build research institutions that are innovative, credible and globally competitive.
He urged governments at all levels to adopt the Academy’s 2026 agenda, ensuring that increased investments in research are efficiently managed to foster a national culture of excellence, accountability and innovation in science and technology.
