The Federal Government has flagged off the second phase of the DELTA 2 Programme, a bilateral initiative with the Czech Republic aimed at boosting technology transfer, innovation, and industrial growth in Nigeria.
At the launch in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, described the scheme as a bold step towards building an innovation-driven economy. He stressed that global competitiveness now depends on science, technology, and innovation, and Nigeria must position itself accordingly.
Khalil Suleiman-Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), said DELTA 2 is designed to produce research outcomes with direct commercial value.
“This is research with purpose – research that produces knowledge, products, and skills capable of moving from laboratories into the marketplace,” he explained.
Halilu noted that ICT alone contributed almost 20% of Nigeria’s GDP in Q2 2024, while Africa’s green economy is projected to generate over 3 million jobs by 2030, underscoring the link between innovation and long-term prosperity.
Dr. Muhammed Dahiru, Chairman of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer, revealed that 10 of the 25 projects executed under the first phase have been completed and are now commercially available. He said the successes provided the momentum to launch the second phase with higher expectations.
The programme, aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focuses on food security, energy transition, industrialisation, and job creation.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), said DELTA 2 also provides a pathway for Nigerians abroad to contribute their expertise at home. “Nigerians excel globally. This programme creates a platform for them to channel their skills and innovations back into the country,” she said.
Project Manager, Togo Adjekughele, announced that applications are open to researchers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and higher institutions. Applicants must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, be tax compliant, and demonstrate readiness for commercialisation. Priority areas include agriculture, renewable energy, aerospace, digital technology, and general manufacturing.
