President Bola Tinubu has written the Senate seeking approval for the establishment of the National Research and Development Fund.
The request is aimed at creating a dedicated funding framework to support research, innovation and development across Nigeria.
The move comes after the Federal Executive Council approved the National Research and Innovation Development Fund in May 2026. The Federal Government said the fund would provide sustainable financing for research, prototyping and the commercialisation of innovations.
The proposed initiative is expected to support researchers, innovators, universities and research institutions while helping to connect research outcomes with industry and economic development.
The Federal Government had previously announced plans for the fund, with Education Minister Tunji Alausa saying it could receive up to $500 million annually.
The Senate had also previously indicated its willingness to consider legislation establishing a national research and innovation framework, with the National Research and Innovation Bill having progressed through the legislative process.
The latest request from Tinubu is expected to advance the legal process for establishing the fund.
The development has sparked reactions online.
@PublicVTV: Research funding is one thing; transparent and effective implementation is another. That part will matter too.
@Temidayo598: Another money to be borrowed again
@Clinton207O: Who wrote pls ???
@onlineguru__: Oh you mean he’s not even remorse that he went against the constitution by staying more than 21days outside Nigeria
