VP charges states on technical innovations as NASENI attracts $3.23 billion

To fast-track Nigeria’s industrialisation, Vice President Kashim has urged state governments to patronise technological innovations developed by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

Shettima stated this during the 146th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, which he chaired at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He was responding to a presentation by the Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, which detailed a strategic roadmap by the agency for Nigeria’s industrialisation.

Technology Transfer and Adaptation’, detailed the Agency’s focus in critical sectors such as renewable energy sustainability, digital technology, construction and smart city as well as defence and aerospace.

The agency sought NEC’s support to establish manufacturing industries in states, access local natural raw materials, streamline processes related to land and seaport facilitation, seek guidance or partnerships to tap into the public sector market, assistance to set up showrooms for NASENI products and favourable policies to promote NASENI activities.

The EVC/CEO of NASENI, in a statement, highlighted the agency’s innovations in energy security, including electric vehicles, solar home systems for enhanced rural electrification, smart devices including laptops and tablets tailored for Nigeria’s market and solar irrigation pumps and coal-based fertilisers to improve agricultural productivity.

Halilu reiterated the agency’s commitment to transforming Nigeria into a global innovation powerhouse through technology transfer, and product commercialisation, adding that the Agency is working with key partners on NASENI Troment (vaccine factory), Portland (CNG Centre), Devfrontier (solar light and battery) and Renewable Park and Family Homes.

“Our mission is clear: to make NASENI the ‘go-to’ institution for technology transfer in Nigeria,” he stated, adding that the agency has attracted $3.23 billion in investments, and launched the DELT-Her initiative for female engineers while championing renewable energy projects.

The council lauded NASENI’s efforts in driving local manufacturing and industrial development and directed the agency to scale up the establishment of lithium battery factories in resource-rich regions and repair tractors nationwide under the National Asset Restoration Programme.

NEC resolved to harness NASENI’s tailored support for manufacturing and public sector partnerships, ensuring Nigeria benefits from infrastructure, policy frameworks, and market access critical for economic diversification.

NASENI said it remained committed to working with states and the private sector to unlock Nigeria’s potential for industrial innovation and sustainable development.