The Lagos State government, through the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), has awarded nearly N75 million in grants to support research, innovative projects and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives.
The awards aim to foster a knowledge-driven economy, enhance technological advancement, and empower start-ups, entrepreneurs and researchers.
The grants were awarded in three categories: Research and Development (R&D), Innovation, and STEM Education, reflecting Lagos’s commitment to nurturing talents that will shape the state’s future.
At the awards ceremony, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the initiative was part of Lagos’ broader strategy to build a modern and resilient economy fuelled by creativity, knowledge and sustainable growth.
He added that the creation of LASRIC was driven by the goal of transforming Lagos into a knowledge-based economy.
The platform, he said, has become a source of hope and support for young people, start-ups, entrepreneurs and researchers across the state.
He noted that the government’s focus on technology and innovation aims to drive economic growth, empower citizens and develop an inclusive, resilient economy.
Highlighting Lagos’ impact in the innovation arena, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that LASRIC has funded several breakthrough ideas spanning various sectors, including health, education, mobility, fintech, climate change, culture, circular economy and quantum computing.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tunbosun Alake, said that entrepreneurship, innovation and R&D are pivotal for societal development.
He praised the awardees for their dedication and urged them to sustain their efforts in adding value to Lagos and Nigeria at large.
Alake reaffirmed the state government’s steadfast support, pledging continued backing until their success is achieved.
Among the awardees are Prof. Akintayo Ogundajo, Dr. Metilelu Olusola, Co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of Dynalimb Technologies, Blessing Aniefiok and Co-founder and Director of Partnership and Growth at Black Accelerate, Ajayi Oluwafemi.
Chairman of LASRIC and Vice Chancellor of Lagos University of Science and Technology, Prof. Olumiyiwa Odusanya, lauded the ingenuity and industriousness of the awardees.
He charged them not to rest on their oars and assured them that the council would continue to support their efforts to develop Lagos into a hub for technology and innovation in Nigeria and Africa.
Expressing gratitude, the awardees thanked LASRIC and the Lagos State government for recognising their work and providing crucial grants.
They pledged to utilise the funds effectively to deliver impactful results that would benefit Lagos and the nation.
This initiative underscores Lagos’ unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, research and entrepreneurship that will secure its position as Nigeria’s foremost technology and innovation hub.
