The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has reaffirmed that research commercialization remains central to Nigeria’s economic development.

Speaking at the North-Central Sensitization Programme on the NASENI Research Commercialization Grant Programme (NRCGP), held on Wednesday, 24th September 2025 at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Halilu stressed the importance of addressing financial and administrative setbacks often faced by research projects.

The EVC who was represented by NASENI’s Research Director, Prof. Abdulmalik Ibrahim Onuwe stated that the NRCGP was designed to support viable research and development initiatives in the country, which also propagates NASENI’s mission and vision.

 According to him, the application process is fully digitalized, transparent, and does not require physical presence or long administrative procedures. “This sensitization is not just for personal benefit but also to empower prospective researchers from institutes who may seek guidance about the programme,” Halilu said.

He urged participants, including representatives from universities, the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), National Space Research and Development Agency (NSRDA), among others to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by NASENI to foster collaboration and innovation.

Presenting an overview of the NRCGP, Programme Coordinator and Special Adviser to the EVC on Science and Engineering Commercialisation, Engr. Dr. Anas Balarabe Yazid, highlighted the objectives, eligibility criteria, and key assessment tools of the programme.

He emphasized that the grant aligns with NASENI’s mandate to promote local content, noting that under the NASENI principle of Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation (3Cs), it is being radically prioritized. “Every research project must be noble, clear, market-viable, and align with NASENI’s transformation agenda and Nigeria’s broader development goals,” he said.

In her vote of thanks, Deputy Director, Planning and Policy Analysis, Ms. Joy Elugbe expressed appreciation to the EVC and participants, encouraging researchers to embrace NASENI’s initiatives as a pathway to national progress.

PHOTO NRCGP

L-R: The Overseeing Officer, Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Development Institute (AMEDI), Lafia, Nasarawa State,  Engr. Mustafa Usman;  the Deputy Director, Engineering Infrastructure NASENI, Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Ajani; the Director, Manufacturing Services Department, NASENI, Engr. Dr. Olayode Olasupo; Research Director, NASENI, Engr. Dr. Patrick Okwu; EVC/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu represented by the Research Director, NASENI, Engr. Prof. Abdulmalik Onuwe;  Director, Planning and Policy Analysis Department, Dr. MacDonald Aloko; and Coordinator, NASENI Research Commercialization Grant Programme (NRCGP), Engr. Dr. Anas Yazid  during the Zonal Sensitization Programme, held Wednesday,  September 24, 2025 at the NASENI Headquarters, Abuja.

…As FG Insists on Commercialization of R&D Results to Boost the Economy

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) have launched the second phase of the DELTA-2 Programme-the 2nd Call for Proposals, which will focus on Commercialization of all R&D outcomes in different fields of the economy.

The Delta-2 Project is a bilateral collaboration by the Federal Government of Nigeria through NASENI-PICTT and the Czech Republic through the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TA CR) targeting submissions from innovators, technology entrepreneurs and researchers in Nigeria across mining, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, science and engineering, etc. The 1^st Call for Proposals under the Delta-2 programme was launched in the year 2022, following which grants were disbursed by NASENI to winners of the approved projects to scale up their enterprises.

In his welcome address, Chairman, Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), Dr. Dahiru Mohammed, said Delta-2 Project has become a major driver of innovation, economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria, saying it is aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s technological growth through international collaboration.

 “The DELTA-2 Programme is a catalyst for job creation, enhanced productivity and the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It will help reduce dependence on imports while boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness,” he stated.

He highlighted the achievements of the previous call for proposals launched in May 2022, which attracted 285 submissions from Nigerian researchers and companies, out of which 25 projects were funded in 2023, which has resulted in innovative products and services across agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and other strategic sectors which have already created jobs, built capacity and advanced technology transfer.

In his keynote speech, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, noted that DELTA-2 had the potential to be a catalyst for Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem adding that the decision is already yielding results. “Today, we can point to the stories of 12 beneficiaries from the First Call, Nigerians who are working on diverse projects across our country.

“From renewable energy solutions to advanced materials, from agricultural technologies to manufacturing innovations, these projects testify to the power of applied research to solve real problems, create jobs, and deliver products and services that meet the needs of our people”, he remarked.

Halilu noted that what makes DELTA 2 unique is its focus on outcomes. “It is not research for the sake of research, it is research with purpose and market in mind. It is research that leads to new knowledge, new skills and new products. It is research that bridges the gap between the laboratory and the marketplace, between ideas and impact.

“It is also a bridge between nations — between Czech enterprises and Nigerian innovators, between European expertise and African creativity. Together, we are building partnerships that accelerate progress, foster mutual respect and infinite possibilities for both our countries”, he emphasized.

The NASENI boss further  stated that DELTA-2 projects being supported by NASENI will respond not only to the current needs of the society, but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow — from climate change to digital transformation. Therefore, he called on researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs in Nigeria to make use of the opportunity once again.

In his remarks, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji,  said the “The theme is clear, it is to generate research outcomes that will lead to new products, new processes, apply results that directly enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness, create jobs and open new markets at home and abroad”.

He noted that the Delta-2 Projects priority areas range from agriculture and food technology, renewable energy, mining and industrial development, health and health technologies, advanced manufacturing, digital mobility, climate technology and defence innovations which aligns strongly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Let me emphasize, this is not research for shelves. This is research for impact. Every funded project must deliver tangible, scalable and commercially viable outcomes that respond to Nigeria’s real challenges and opportunities”. He called on Nigerian researchers, companies and innovators to seize this opportunity to build a greater Nigeria through innovation and technology transfer.

In her goodwill message, the Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa said the initiative reflects the visionary leadership of President Tinubu’s administration in encouraging fresh ideas and innovations that can move the country forward. “This is another day of success and progress for Nigeria. It shows how much we have achieved in technology and innovation as a nation,” she remarked.

She praised NASENI’s leadership under Halilu for advancing Nigeria’s science, innovation, and technology agenda, while appealing for a similar project to be extended to Nigerians in the diaspora.

 Also speaking, Special Assistant to the President on Trade, Investment and Industry, Mr. John Ugochukwu Uwajumogu commended NASENI and PICTT for aligning their efforts with President Tinubu’s $1 trillion economy agenda, emphasizing that technology transfer is central to achieving industrialization. “We must strengthen our industrial capacity to attract both global and domestic investments and to compete strongly on the global stage,” he added.

In response to the growing demand for digital skills, Nigerian-owned Borderless TEK Ltd, headquartered at Runway East in Birmingham has announced a new free training program aimed at adults seeking to transition into the technology sector.

The initiative, now in its third series, is part of the company’s mission to make technology education more accessible and engaging. This year’s flagship session, “Introduction to Technology,” will be delivered in early October by world-renowned tutor Emeka Oziri, who has been central to the company’s adult training efforts.

Speaking on the upcoming program, Olawale Atekoja(CEO, BorderlessTek) explained that over the years, the company has trained adults eager to enter the tech world by guiding them through the transition from the physical to the digital space. While Borderless TEK charges fees for children’s training in AI, robotics and coding, the adult programs remain completely free. “Our mission is simple,” he said. “We want to give everyone the opportunity to explore the exciting worlds of coding, artificial intelligence and robotics from the comfort of their home.”

He stressed the importance of proper guidance in technology education, pointing out that many people invest in tools or courses without a clear sense of direction. He noted that someone skilled with numbers, for instance, may thrive in data analysis or big data, while individuals who enjoy communication and explanation might be better suited for project management. “Ours is to guide these adults at no cost,” he added.

Since 2024, Borderless TEK has built a track record of offering such programs. The company previously held a Data Analysis workshop in November 2024 and a free Artificial Intelligence training in July 2025. The upcoming Introduction to Technology class will revisit foundational concepts to help new learners chart their digital journeys.

In addition to the October, 2025 training, Borderless TEK organized a five-week UI/UX Online Training course that took place in March, 2025. This was led by industry expert Tariq Fasasi, the weekly sessions were held every Sunday evening, starting at 5:00 PM UK time and 6:00 PM Nigerian time. 

Later in the year, on October 5, 2025, Borderless TEK will host a special event titled “Transit into Tech”, featuring Emeka Oziri. This session is designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for those new to the field, covering topics such as exploring the technology landscape, applying artificial intelligence in everyday life, turning ideas into practical projects, and creating personal career growth plans in technology. Registration will be available through QR codes and online links provided on the company’s platforms.

Through these initiatives, Borderless TEK underscores its commitment to democratizing technology education and equipping a new generation of learners with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

Since 2024, Borderless TEK has built a track record of offering such programs. The company previously held a Data Analysis workshop in November 2024 and a free Artificial Intelligence training in July 2025. The upcoming Introduction to Technology class will revisit foundational concepts to help new learners chart their digital journeys.

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‎Kano State Government to Host Cycling Kano Event in December
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‎The Kano State Government has announced a strategic partnership with BrandEscort Communications, a leading brand and event marketing company, to host Cycling Kano 2025, a landmark sporting event aimed at promoting healthy living, tourism, and youth engagement in the state.
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‎Scheduled for Saturday, December 20, 2025, the event will bring together professional cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and sports lovers from across the country. Beyond fostering sports development,  The  Cycling Kano 2025 , an event expected to kick off from the Sani  Abacha Stadium will showcase Kano’s rich cultural heritage, economic opportunities, and vibrant hospitality.
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‎Speaking recently on the event in Kano, the Special Adviser, Youth and Sports Development, Kano State, Sani Musa Danja, said the annual event organized by the. State Government in collaboration with BrandEscort Communications is designed to encourage healthy living through regular exercise for a wide range of participants, including cycling enthusiasts, corporate executives, professionals, and the youth in the state.
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‎Danja explained that the event, themed “Health and Wellness,” seeks to drive conversations on both mental and physical health across Nigeria.
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‎“We recognize the significant benefits of this event, which include promoting healthy competition among corporate organizations and young people, discovering and nurturing cycling talent, and elevating the status of cycling as a major sport in Nigeria.
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‎”We believe this event presents a unique opportunity for corporate brands to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of society. By supporting this initiative, they can align themselves with the positive values of health, wellness, and community development,” Danja stated.
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‎He added that the Kano State Ministry of Youth and Sports will play a central role in securing the race route, coordinating relevant government agencies, enhancing logistics, and ensuring funding for the event.  He said the Ministry will also work closely with the Kano State Cycling Association and other key stakeholders to ensure the success of the event.
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‎ “With the strong backing of the Kano State Government and our partners, this event is poised to be a powerful statement on the importance of public health and sports development in our state,” Danja affirmed.
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‎On his part, Bamidele Adeleye, Managing Director, BrandEscort Communications, expressed gratitude to the Kano State Government for the collaboration, noting that the event would serve as a model for public-private partnerships in sports development.
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‎”“This partnership with the Kano State Government demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving innovation and impact. Cycling Kano 2025 will not only inspire healthy lifestyles but also create opportunities for tourism, investment, and brand visibility,” Adeleye said.
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‎Highlights of Cycling Kano 2025 will include Mini Tour of Kano, competitive cycling races, fun rides for families and amateurs, cultural displays, and an exhibition of local products and services. The event is expected to attract thousands of participants in the State and across the country, reinforcing Kano’s role as a gateway to Northern Nigeria.
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‎For more information on sponsorship and partnership, you can reach out to the organisers via cyclingkano@gmail.com or call 07033956609.
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Nigeria’s telecommunications industry continues to demonstrate resilience and growth despite market challenges, with Airtel Nigeria emerging as a key driver of digital inclusion in the country.

According to recent industry data, Airtel’s internet subscriber base reached 49.3 million in June 2025, a significant rise from 31.9 million in 2019. This expansion gives the operator a 35 percent share of internet subscriptions nationwide, cementing its role in driving connectivity and access to digital services across the country.

On the voice services front, Airtel has also recorded notable progress. Its market share grew from 23 percent in 2019 to 34 percent in 2025, reflecting sustained efforts to enhance service quality and deliver value to millions of Nigerian subscribers.

Outgoing Chief Commercial Officer, Femi Oshinlaja, attributed the company’s success to a blend of innovation, attentiveness to customer needs, and decisive leadership. “True leadership in the telecoms sector involves embracing challenges with innovation, attentiveness to evolving customer needs, and ensuring impactful decision-making. Airtel Nigeria’s performance reflects this ethos,” he noted.

Oshinlaja, who has overseen much of Airtel’s expansion in recent years, expressed gratitude to his colleagues, partners, and loyal customers as he announced his transition from the company. He also paid tribute to Airtel’s leadership under Chairman Sir Sunil Bharti Mittal, whose belief in Africa has guided the company’s long-term strategy.

While stepping away from his role, Oshinlaja said he remains optimistic about Airtel Nigeria’s future. “I am confident that the team I leave behind will carry the torch forward,” he added, signaling his readiness to embrace new opportunities ahead.

Airtel’s trajectory highlights not only its growing influence in Nigeria’s telecom market but also the broader role of the sector in expanding digital inclusion and connectivity across Africa.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Nigeria’s economy is showing renewed strength on the back of rising non-oil exports, with new data revealing significant gains despite persistent concerns over domestic food prices.

Figures for the first half of 2025 indicate that non-oil exports rose by nearly 20 percent, reaching $3.225 billion, with more than 197 Nigerian products now finding their way to markets across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Key export leaders include cocoa, fertilizer, and cashew nuts, underscoring Nigeria’s push to diversify its economy beyond crude oil.

According to Dr. Bamidele Ayemibo, Board Chair of the Institute of Export and International Trade, the shift represents a turning point. “Nigeria’s exports now outweigh imports… the trajectory looks very positive with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council’s (NEPC) ‘Double Your Export’ initiative,” he said.

Several government-backed initiatives are credited with driving this momentum. These include NEPC’s export credit programmes, the “Project Earn from the Soil” agricultural initiative, and preparations for the National Single Window Project, set to be launched in 2026 to streamline trade processes. The country has also recorded a 223 percent surge in regional exports through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, highlighting the importance of regional integration.

International bodies such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have acknowledged these developments, noting that Nigeria’s export expansion is contributing to trade surpluses and greater macroeconomic stability.

While inflation and food prices remain top-of-mind for many Nigerians, analysts suggest that the quieter story of export-led growth could reshape the country’s economic outlook. For stakeholders in trade and development, the growing activity at ports like Apapa reflects a transformation that is positioning Nigeria as a stronger player in regional and global markets.

As the Naira continues to appreciate against the U.S. Dollar, concerns are mounting among Nigerians who hold large sums in foreign currency. For many, the fear is that what once served as a hedge against volatility in the Nigerian economy may now be eroding in value. This concern was echoed by an investor who recently disclosed that his savings of over $150,000, which was valued at about ₦260 million in January, has now dropped to around ₦230 million following the Naira’s rebound.

Responding to such anxieties, financial planner and CEO of MTWI Financial Services, Ifeoluwa Adegoke, explained that dollar savings should not be seen as a short-term play but rather as a long-term wealth preservation strategy, ideally spanning two to five years. She stressed that while currency fluctuations are inevitable, a structured approach to investment can protect and even grow wealth during periods of exchange rate volatility.

According to Adegoke, one of the mistakes many people make is leaving their dollar reserves idle in bank accounts. She emphasized that there are low-risk investment instruments that can generate between 7 to 8 percent in passive income annually, providing a buffer against currency losses. At the same time, she encouraged investors to periodically rebalance their portfolios in response to changing economic conditions. With Nigeria showing relative macroeconomic stability, she suggested that converting a portion of dollar holdings into Naira and investing in local opportunities could yield attractive returns of at least 20 percent per annum.

She further advised that Nigerians with dollar savings should look outward as well, particularly towards the U.S. stock market. By diversifying into global equities, investors not only hedge against local currency risk but also position themselves for higher growth opportunities abroad. However, she cautioned strongly against panic-driven decisions, urging instead for deliberate and strategic portfolio adjustments that reflect both long-term goals and present realities.

For Adegoke, the key lies in having a plan. “Currency volatility is inevitable, but with proper planning, you can protect your wealth and even take advantage of market opportunities,” she noted. To this end, she is offering free consultations to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, guiding them to structure their finances in a way that balances safety, profitability, and long-term vision.

Her intervention highlights a growing conversation around wealth management in Nigeria, where traditional reliance on foreign currency savings is being tested by shifting economic conditions. As the Naira gains strength, voices like Adegoke’s are urging investors to think beyond reactionary moves and instead adopt strategies that transform uncertainty into opportunity.

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has taken a significant step towards deepening Nigeria’s role in the global digital economy, following a high-level bilateral engagement in Denmark.

Leading the Nigerian delegation, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, met with key Danish innovators and institutions in a visit supported by the Bestseller Foundation and the Embassy of Denmark in Nigeria.

The discussions focused on Denmark’s globally acclaimed digital transformation models, ranging from data-driven governance to satellite and telecom infrastructure, which continue to set high benchmarks in the global digital space.

During the visit, the delegation held strategic talks with organizations including Cbrain, e-Boks, Sternula, Nordic e-SIM, KarlFarms, and NetCompany, exploring opportunities in public sector digitisation, satellite communication, digital post, agriculture, and telecom infrastructure. According to the minister, these conversations reaffirmed the vast potential for collaboration in areas such as interoperability, the trust economy, and emerging technology adoption.

Special acknowledgments were extended to Jette Bjerrum, Consulate General of Denmark; Sara Ibru, Commercial Deputy Head at the Embassy of Denmark to Nigeria; and Anders Boelskifte Mogensen and Tine Fisker Henriksen of the Bestseller Foundation, whose efforts ensured constructive engagements with both government and private sector stakeholders.

The visit also highlighted potential partnerships in talent exchange with Copenhagen Capacity, collaborations on data parks, and the advancement of Project BRIDGE.

Reflecting on the mission, Dr. Tijani emphasized that the engagements were a reminder of what is possible when nations build strong cross-border partnerships:

“Our engagements in Denmark were a strong reminder of what is possible when we strengthen friendships across borders and commit to shared prosperity through innovation and digital transformation. I look forward to translating these discussions into impactful programmes that deliver value to Nigerians and strengthen our place as a leading voice in the global technology conversation.”

The Denmark visit marks another step in Nigeria’s efforts to position itself as a competitive player in the global technology and digital innovation ecosystem.

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing the state’s smart city agenda during his visit to the Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) booth at the recently concluded GITEX Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by his Special Adviser on E-GIS, Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, and other senior officials, was received by Ifee Kojo, Country Manager, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (operated by Selectium), alongside strategic partners from Microsoft and the wider HPE leadership team.

Speaking at the event, Kojo emphasized HPE’s dedication to supporting Lagos in becoming Africa’s smartest metropolis through the deployment of cutting-edge digital infrastructure.

“We had the honour of reaffirming our commitment to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, a pledge to accelerate the state’s E-GIS transformation agenda and position Lagos as Africa’s smartest metropolis,” Kojo said.

As part of the initiative, HPE, in collaboration with Microsoft, is delivering the Microsoft Azure Stack HCI solution to Lagos State’s Electronic Geographic Information System (E-GIS). This solution will enable the state to host cloud services locally, strengthen data security, support AI readiness, and provide a fully integrated, intelligent networking platform.

Kojo noted that HPE’s vision is anchored on leveraging technology to improve lives, strengthen communities, and enhance public sector innovation.

“At HPE, our vision is simple: technology will transform how our citizens live, how our communities connect, and how our governments innovate,” she added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who has consistently championed digital transformation as part of his administration’s THEMES+ agenda, commended the collaboration and reaffirmed his government’s readiness to harness technology to improve governance, service delivery, and urban planning across Lagos State.

The high-level delegation at the engagement included industry leaders such as Olatomiwa Williams (M.CIoD), Michael Langeveld, and Ali Elkhidir, who joined discussions on how the partnership could further accelerate digital adoption and sustainability in Lagos.

The event underscored Lagos State’s drive to embrace innovative technologies in urban management and positioned HPE and Microsoft as key partners in delivering solutions that matter for the future of Africa’s largest city.

Gabriel Ogbechie, Group Managing Director of Rainoil Limited, recently shared a heartfelt message that truly resonates:

“Wow, my wife is 60! We’ve truly come a long way together. You have stood by me every step of the way, and your presence has been nothing short of a tremendous blessing. I honestly cannot imagine this journey without you. I deeply appreciate you and love you from the depths of my heart.”

Reading this, I am reminded of the power of enduring partnership. Gabriel’s words capture something universal: that success and fulfillment are amplified when shared with someone who believes in you, supports you, and stands unwaveringly by your side.

He continues:

“My greatest joy today is seeing you celebrate this milestone in good health. My prayer is that whatever you lay your hands on will continue to prosper, that blessings will never depart from you, and that God will grant you joy, peace, good health, and fulfilment—now and always, in Jesus’ name. Happy birthday, my darling wife❤️ I love you.”

This is more than a birthday wish; it is a reflection on gratitude, love, and the value of lifelong partnership. Milestones like these remind us to celebrate not only the achievements but the people who make our journey meaningful.

Gabriel’s message is a beautiful testament to devotion, appreciation, and the joy of sharing life with someone extraordinary. It is a reminder that the greatest blessings in life are often found in the relationships we nurture and the love we give. ❤️