Knowledge Economy and Sustainable Development (RIKE-SD) call for Market-Driven research, knowledge attachés

A Pan-African research organization is advocating for the establishment of ‘knowledge attachés’ at Nigerian embassies worldwide to enhance innovation, technology, and science, thereby facilitating faster technology transfers to Nigeria.

Dr. Mustapha Popoola, Executive Director of Research for Impact, Knowledge Economy and Sustainable Development (RIKE-SD), made this call during the organization’s first anniversary celebration in Abuja.

He emphasized a significant gap between technological innovations and the actual needs of Nigeria and Africa, which has limited the impact of these technologies.

Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, represented by his Special Assistant Dr. Patrick Ogbuma, supported the need for research driven by market demands.

He highlighted the importance of focusing Nigerian research on practical applications rather than theoretical studies that do not address real-world problems.

Professor Suleman Elias Bogoro, former Executive Secretary of TETFUND and Chairman of Funding for RIKE-SD, stressed the importance of the knowledge economy in modern economies.

He argued that purposeful, knowledge-driven research and innovation are crucial for staying relevant in the 21st century and beyond.

Prof. Bogoro, also advocated for a collaborative approach involving government, academia, industry, funders, and the community to ensure research addresses Nigeria’s critical challenges, including poverty, insecurity, and energy needs.

Reporting by Muzha Kucha; Editing by Julian Osamoto