Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to homegrown technologies as central drivers of national transformation, stressing that science must reflect Nigeria’s realities to build trust and deliver tangible impact.

Speaking at the 2025 World Science Day for Peace and Development in Abuja, themed “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050,” Dr. Udeh highlighted the Ministry’s focus on locally developed innovations that enhance livelihoods, boost food security, and promote sustainability.

He emphasized that the government’s science and innovation agenda aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, supporting economic diversification, innovation-driven growth, job creation, and youth empowerment through Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).

Dr. Udeh cited several impactful initiatives:

• Tela Maize Initiative – Implemented by the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) with the Ministry of Agriculture, this project has increased maize yields, improved pest control, and reduced post-harvest losses.
• FIIRO Cassava and Potato Processing Facilities – Established nationwide to empower farmers, encourage agro-processing entrepreneurship, and minimize agricultural waste.
• Renewable Energy & Import Substitution – NBRDA has improved biodigesters to produce clean biogas and electricity from biomass, while the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has developed solar generators, cross-flow turbines, and locally made electricity meters.

“Homegrown technology that mirrors our reality must drive transformation,” Dr. Udeh stated. “We have developed neem-based minero organic fertilizer, now in use by Northern Nigerian farmers, improving soil health, reducing pests, and increasing food sustainability.”

The Minister also highlighted initiatives in industrial development and sustainable manufacturing, including the Methanol Downstream Value Chain, Multi-Chemical Production Plants, and innovations for affordable chemicals supporting agriculture, SMEs, and education.

On infrastructure and safety, Dr. Udeh noted projects such as plastic waste recycling into building materials, bamboo-based housing solutions, carbon monoxide sensors, self-triggering fire extinguishers, auto-gas car technology, and accelerometer sensors for bridge monitoring.

To foster innovation, the Ministry has Technology and Innovation Hubs and Model Science Laboratories in every geopolitical zone, providing spaces for young innovators to collaborate and commercialize solutions.

“Our path to 2050 is about making science reliable, inclusive, and influential,” he said. “Innovation must reflect our nation’s resilience, the potential of our youth, and the ambitions of our people.”

Dr. Udeh also acknowledged the role of cultural knowledge in scientific advancement and stressed alignment with global frameworks such as the UN 2030 Agenda, Paris Climate Agreement, Sendai Framework, and the African Union Agenda 2063.

“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 citizens, and builds a sustainable tomorrow.”