The Federal Government, through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has announced plans to establish 18 new Innovation Hubs across tertiary institutions in 2025 as part of a broader strategy to strengthen research and innovation in Nigeria.
To support this drive, TETFund has allocated N70 billion towards advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), aligning with its goal to promote skills development and technological advancement.
TETFund Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, disclosed this at the closing ceremony of the 30th cohort of the Research for Impact (R4i) initiative held at the Innov8 Technology Hub in Abuja. He noted that the federal government’s long-term vision includes building a total of 72 innovation hubs and centres across Nigeria in phases.
“Our focus this year is on expanding TVET and strengthening STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. There’s significant investment going into the tech sector at every level—entry, mid-level, and advanced—so we can develop a capable workforce that meets our domestic needs and even contributes globally,” Echono said.
He emphasized TETFund’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of problem-solving research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. According to him, education and research remain critical pillars for sustainable national development.
The R4i initiative, implemented in collaboration with Innov8 Technology Hub, is designed to equip researchers and academics with the tools to conduct impactful, solution-driven research that addresses pressing societal challenges.
Echono reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to institutionalizing research and development (R&D) in Nigerian tertiary institutions and strengthening the link between research and industry. He explained that the innovation hubs and entrepreneurship centres will be rolled out in phases to ensure sustainability and mentorship.
“The first phase includes 12 institutions under the 2023 intervention year, the second phase covers 18 institutions under the 2024 intervention, and the third phase will see another 18 institutions benefit under the 2025 intervention,” he said.
“These hubs will serve as practical spaces where researchers can apply what they’ve learned and mentor others, ensuring a ripple effect of innovation across our campuses,” he added.
Echono also applauded previous R4i participants for producing meaningful innovations showcased at the inaugural TETFund National Research Fair in November 2024. He expressed confidence that the current cohort would deliver equally impactful results.
Also speaking at the event, Professor Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), stressed the importance of protecting intellectual property through patents and trade name registration. He urged polytechnics to spearhead practical innovation by converting scientific principles into homegrown products and technologies.
“Nigeria must stop depending on imported technology. We should be producing our own cars, phones, and gadgets,” Bugaje said. “We can take a cue from countries like Rwanda and Uganda, which have made strides in local manufacturing.”
Bugaje challenged participants to embrace teamwork and take bold steps toward technological self-reliance, adding, “This training is vital. You’re being exposed to innovation tools that can transform this country.”
In his remarks, Mr. Edward Singhatey, Director at Innov8 Hub, encouraged participants to transfer their knowledge to students and colleagues to widen the innovation culture.
“It’s time to commercialize research. The tools are in your hands—use them to drive change in your institutions and beyond,” Singhatey urged.
