The Nigerian Academy of Science has urged the Federal and State Governments to prioritise investment in scientific research, innovation, and development, describing it as vital for national growth and sustainable development.
In a statement on Monday, President Abubakar Sambo and Public Affairs Secretary Chinedum Babalola outlined the academy’s 2026 agenda, highlighting concerns over persistent underfunding of research and development, as well as governance challenges in educational and research institutions across the country.
The academy said increasing demand for science-based solutions to issues such as climate change, energy transition, public health, food security, and industrial competitiveness makes sustained investment in research more critical than ever.
“Countries that have achieved sustained economic growth and technological competitiveness have done so through deliberate, long-term investment in science, robust research systems, and strong research institutions,” the statement said. It added that investments in science should go beyond project funding to include human resource development, research infrastructure, and strong institutional systems to support effective research and innovation.
The academy also stressed the importance of proper governance in universities and research institutes, noting that appointments to governing councils should be based on merit, with preference for individuals with relevant academic qualifications and experience in tertiary institution administration. It called for a review of recent appointments of non-specialists as heads of research institutes and science-based agencies, emphasizing that such positions should be held by qualified technical experts with credible research backgrounds.
The statement further expressed concern over irregularities in the appointment of vice-chancellors at some universities and urged strict adherence to due process and established procedures to ensure credibility, transparency, and accountability.
The academy concluded by urging both Federal and State Governments to adopt its 2026 agenda, increase investments in research, and ensure effective management to promote excellence, accountability, and innovation in science and technology.
The Nigerian Academy of Science is the country’s foremost independent scientific body, dedicated to advancing science, technology, and innovation, and promoting the use of scientific knowledge to address national development challenges.
