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Like China and Japan: NASENI is Pathway to Nigeria’s Industrial Economy
By Mr. Olusegun S. Ayeoyenikan
Nigeria cannot have real development without a sustainable industrial growth and manufacturing capacity which is the solution to poverty, unemployment and insecurity.
No doubt having an industrial goods production base and or a competitive industrial economy is the only remedy to Nigeria’s dependence on importation of goods, technologies and services from other nations.
What is an industrial economy? Simply put, it is the prevalent use of machines, equipment or technologies in industry and all business concerns which combine other factors of innovation, production, facilities, supplies, work and knowledge to produce material goods or services intended for the market.
The complex and functional nature of infrastructures and investments in science, technology and innovation system put in place by a nation to drive own’s industrial production and manufacturing techniques determine the relative presence or lack of apparent competitiveness in the production of processed and manufactured goods that are being connected between industrial activity and the activity in the primary sector, local or international trade and service activity.
When a nation significantly lacks the above-mentioned factors for economic efficiency, it faces industrial underdevelopment with all the associated deplorable social and economic conditions.
Countries like Japan and China who initially were not among European nations which experienced the first and second industrial revolutions in the 17th, 18th to 19th centuries respectively had rapidly advanced to join the league of industrialized nations of the West because those nations overtime deliberately invested in research and development (R&D), innovation, science and technology.
“Similarly, the newcomers to the global industrial arena, known as the Asian Tigers—Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and others—discovered the secret of substantial investments in science and innovation much earlier than many African nations, including Nigeria”
Science and technology, engineering research and innovation are the essential bedrocks for any meaningful industrialization endeavour to take place. The implication for Nigeria is that if engineering, science, technology and Innovation are not given due priority in our nation’s economic recovery and growth plans, any success expected to be achieved will soon be short-lived or unsustainable. Countries like Japan, U.S.A, China, Germany, Indonesia others had overtime gained their reputation as “Economic Giants” due to the priority which the leaders gave previously to R&D investments, earmarking 5-6 per cent of their gross domestic products (GDP) for the development of science, technology and innovation (STI). Investment in STI is a core factor of development and therein lies the secret of advanced nations’ leadership, pursuit and commitment.
The founding fathers of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure(Presidency) in 1992 established the agency with the aim of establishing and nurturing an appropriate and dynamic Science and Engineering Infrastructure base for achieving home-initiated and home-sustained industrialization process through the development of relevant processes, appropriate local machine design and machine building capabilities for capital goods and equipment manufacture to guarantee job creation, national economic well-being and progress.
Previous R&D efforts and other activities within NASENI’s mandate areas had translated into various technology interventions leading to attainment of capacities and capabilities in local mass production of capital goods, tools and equipment in critical sectors of the economy like agriculture, power, water resources, automotive industry, ICT, health, aviation, education, transportation, scientific equipment and manufacturing, chemical and other engineering materials. The list is boundless.
NASENI was strategically established to produce relevant technologies, set up industrial plants and stimulate knowledge-based entrepreneurship for the socio-economic advancement of the country. Its major challenge in the past were lack of patronage of its products and technologies by local entrepreneurs or businesses, exacerbated by low commercialization attempts of its R&D results, leaving most of them wasting away on the shelves.
However, with the coming on board of a new chief executive, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, a techpreneur and businessman, there has been a dramatic change of focus toward full commercialization of NASENI’s resources, making them available in the market to end users of its R&D products, machines and other equipment to boost the economy. NASENI today stands as a beacon of indigenous technological advancement, aligning with its core mission of fostering dynamic Science and Engineering Infrastructure for national progress.
The agency under the leadership of Halilu has articulated a bold vision to fuel Nigeria’s innovation for a sustainable future through the 3Cs principle of Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization which have indeed opened more doors to result-based partnerships with national and international communities.
According to Halilu, “our new model at NASENI is to do everything to conserve resources, avoid duplication of efforts, and shorten go-to-market time. What this means is that wherever we find serious partners who are already operating in our areas of interest, we will work with them to improve our products and take these products to the market. As a government agency, we are not out to compete with the private sector. Instead, we are here as partners and enablers, helping with everything from design to testing, or helping companies in scaling-up production capacity and to seek out new markets.”
The agency recently unveiled to the general public some branded technological products manufactured in collaboration with its partners. They included solar irrigation systems, electric vehicles (ranging from tricycles to motorcycles), NASENI home solar system, animal feed milling machines, laptop, smartphone, solar streetlamp and lithium battery. All these efforts were geared towards creating jobs and to reduce import bills.
NASENI is not only promoting the development of digital technologies such as mobile financial transaction platforms to bring more people into the formal economy, the agency is also carrying out additive manufacturing, using 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing technologies to produce goods locally. NASENI has developed an electronic voting solution to help reduce electoral malpractices during elections. The organization is also working on other projects such as smart prepaid meter and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to promote economic development in Nigeria.
In addition, there will be concerted efforts to increase the inputs of locally-sourced materials in all product components. NASENI will also work to ensure full transfers of all required Intellectual Property (IP) and technology elements including licensing for domestication and adaptations.
Halilu has pledged to keep the public updated about the progress in the industrial transformational journey of Nigeria, which is a direct manifestation of the Agency’s triple principle of Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization. “As the only purpose-built agency of the Federal Government in Nigeria with a technology transfer mandate, NASENI will always focus on progressively scaling-up local-content sourcing, and strengthening domestic technical and production capacities,” says Halilu.
Going forward, the agency will continue to play crucial roles in Nigeria’s economic transformation not only now, but also serve as leader in the promotion of science and technology, developing indigenous solutions to foster economic growth, provide capital goods and services based on sound engineering practices, support infrastructure development that are essential for manufacturing and economic growth, including driving technological advancement through R&D amongst other initiatives.
Let all hands be on deck at this critical time in the life of our nation as the agency and its team of stakeholders, partners and collaborators continue to assist in pulling Nigeria out of her socio-economic difficulties through STI. According to recent statistics by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s investment in science and technology has led to significant growth in sectors like telecommunications, IT, and e-commerce, contributing around 10-15 per cent to gross domestic product (GDP). However, compared to other developed nations whose economic growth is dependent on STI, Nigeria is still lagging behind. China’s investment in STI contributes around 30-40% to its GDP; UK’s investment contributes around 20-25%; USA’s investment contributes 30-40% to its GDP while Indonesia’s STI contributes around 10-15 percent.
The lasting solution to our country’s economic dilemma now is for us to turn determinedly toward a continuous investment in science, technology and innovations as we journey toward industrialization, and regarding this particular endeavour for Nigeria, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is on the driver’s seat.
Mr. Olusegun S. Ayeoyenikan is the Director Information, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Headquarters, Abuja
With nearly half of Nigeria’s population expressing interest in relocating abroad, as Gallup recent data indicates, the desire to seek greener pastures has become more prominent. When surveyed, 1 in 2 Nigerians say they would want to move abroad for work, school or to expand their business.
This trend, fueled by economic and political instability, suggests a rising number of skilled Nigerians could enrich foreign workforces and economies. While it offers opportunities for individual growth and development, it also raises concerns about a potential brain drain.
The desire to seek better opportunities abroad is understandable. Nigeria’s talented youth, often stifled by systemic challenges, are eager to contribute to the global workforce. It’s not just Nigeria, Liberia for instance according to the report by Gallup has more than 70% of its surveyed population showing interest in moving abroad.
“More than a third of Africans want to move permanently to live somewhere else, a new high, according to a 2023 survey by Gallup. In 2012, 29% wanted to migrate; last year the number was 37%”, says Alexandra Onukwue who writes for Semafor.
However, this exodus can have detrimental effects on the nation’s economic growth and development. As skilled professionals leave, the country loses valuable human capital that could drive innovation and create jobs.
To address this issue, it’s crucial to create an environment that fosters talent and innovation within Nigeria. This involves implementing policies that promote economic growth, reduce corruption, and improve the quality of life. Additionally, investing in education and skills development can equip young Nigerians with the tools they need to succeed.
This is why Vesti is playing an important role as a “Software Engineering Location of Choice” and its dedication to nurturing and developing top talent.
The company has ambitious plans to create over 600 engineering jobs in Lagos over the next two years and 1,500 new engineering jobs in the state by 2027. Although the Dallas-headquartered Vesti serves users from over 15 countries through its mobile apps and website, it has notable presence in the UK, Ghana, Zambia, Nigeria and recently expanded to Canada.
Olusola Amusan, CEO of Vesti, highlights the significance of this migration. “Nigeria is full of talented individuals eager to make a difference, and they are looking globally for opportunities.
Vesti is committed to making that transition as smooth as possible by equipping them with the right resources to succeed abroad,” Amusan said. Amusan emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to migration. “We can’t stop migration, but we can make it seamless, while building room for creative ways for immigrants to send money back home and develop their home countries”, Amusan continues.
While it’s essential to support those seeking opportunities abroad, it’s equally important to create a thriving ecosystem within Nigeria. By investing in education, technology, and entrepreneurship, Nigeria can retain its talent and drive economic growth.
As global economies increasingly need skilled labor, platforms like Vesti are meeting a critical need, helping individuals navigate complex immigration processes.
However, the challenge is ensuring that this migration trend contributes positively to both Nigeria and host countries.
The UN Office on Migration warns against the risks of “brain drain” and emphasizes the need for balanced migration policies. Since the Vesti app allows people from other countries to move to Nigeria by showcasing Nigeria’s strategic advantages, the app is one the ways Amusan things we can balance the scales.
To fully harness the power of migration to create a better future for all, a concerted effort is needed from both the Nigerian government and the international community. The Nigerian government must prioritize education and skills development to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed in a globalized world.
Creating a conducive business environment, reducing corruption, and promoting transparency are essential for attracting investment and fostering innovation. By implementing these measures, Nigeria can retain its talent and encourage entrepreneurship. Retention is however becoming an old trick, countries are trying export, talent export.
The idea of talent export is to partner with multinationals in destination countries, cities, states and national governments, to export talent with the intent to bring foreign direct investment or simply remittances back to the home country. There are a couple of white papers that further explain this model.
International cooperation is crucial in addressing the complex issues surrounding migration. Countries should collaborate to establish skilled worker programs that benefit both sending and receiving nations.
Encouraging the diaspora to contribute to Nigeria’s development through investments and knowledge sharing can also have a significant impact. Additionally, it’s imperative to ensure fair labor practices and protect the rights of migrant workers.
With this trend likely to continue, countries need to recognize the value Nigerian immigrants bring. By easing entry for skilled Nigerian professionals, host countries stand to benefit from a motivated workforce ready to contribute.
At the same time, initiatives like Vesti with over 800,000 downloads in the Google Playstore, are crucial for empowering these professionals to be both successful and well-integrated abroad.
Despite how many people love Vesti, its current success is still a scratch in a market where Vesti wants to help 50m-100m people by 2028. Vesti’s apps can be downloaded in App Store and the Google Play store or via Wevesti.com
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to order the investigation of alleged ₦57 billion of public funds “missing, diverted or stolen” in the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in 2021 under President Muhammadu Buhari government.
This was contained in a statement on Sunday by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
SERAP urged the President to “direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies” to probe the allegations.
The missing funds were captured in the 2021 audited report released last week by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.
SERAP said: “The allegations amount to stealing from the poor. There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for these grave allegations.
“The allegations also suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anticorruption legislation, and international anticorruption obligations.”
According to SERAP, anyone found guilty should be punished by law, and “any missing public funds should be fully recovered and remitted to the treasury.”
The statement said: “Hundreds of billions of naira are also reportedly missing in other Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“According to the 2021 annual audited report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, [the ministry] in 2021 failed to account for over N54 billion [N54,630,000,000.00] meant to pay monthly stipends to Batch C1 N-Power volunteers and non-graduate trainees between August and December 2021.
“The money was ‘not directly paid to the beneficiaries.’ The Auditor-General is concerned that the money ‘may have been diverted.’
“He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury. He also wants suspected perpetrators of the diversion to be sanctioned in line with the Financial Regulations.”
TEDxPAU 2024 brought together some of the brightest minds and boldest voices on November 16th at the Honeywell Auditorium, Lagos Business School. With over 500 attendees eager to explore new possibilities, the event’s theme, ‘Shaping the Future,’ set the tone for a day filled with inspiration, reflection, and transformative ideas.
The day opened with a TED talk by TED founder Chris Anderson, followed by welcome remarks from the Vice-Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Enase Okonedo. She encouraged the audience to embrace the theme, saying, “The future is now, and it is up to all of us to join hands to shape tomorrow.”
The sessions featured inspiring talks from visionaries like Akose Enebeli, who emphasized sustainable urban living by “building upwards instead of outwards,” and Goodnews Igwe, who stressed that creating value is key to success.
Temitope Runsewe championed Africa’s family values as a foundation for economic recovery, describing family businesses as “the future of Nigeria.” Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, advocated for affordable education to drive literacy and digital skills, while Michael Oluwagbemi sparked intrigue with his bold statement that “CNG is the new garri,” promoting energy innovation.
Ziad Maalouf shared leadership insights, underscoring personal growth as the key to scaling success.
Adesuwa Ifedi, Senior Vice President at Heifer International, spoke about the significance of scaling innovation from the inside out, urging organizations to embrace change-driven solutions. Dr. Peter Bamkole, Deputy Vice Chancellor of PAU, described entrepreneurship as “a catalyst for systemic change,” calling for the transformation of problems into solutions with far-reaching impact.
Dr. Cosmas Maduka, who shared his journey from adversity to global success, inspired the audience to embrace their gifts and believe in limitless possibilities.
The event ended with a fireside chat between TEDxPAU organizer Bella Victor and Dr. Maduka, who spoke about the importance of legacy and purpose. He encouraged attendees to see themselves as part of Nigeria’s solution and to embrace both the challenges and triumphs of the country’s journey.
Beyond the talks, TEDxPAU 2024 captivated attendees with musical performances, a spoken word piece, and a high-energy dance performance by different talents from the university.
The event also recognized its sponsors and volunteers, thanking them for their critical role in making the day a success.
In his closing remarks, Bella Victor expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating: “TEDxPAU was founded with the goal of giving back to this incredible school and creating a 360-degree impact—supporting our students, raising awareness for our school, and giving innovators a platform to reach a global audience. It’s inspiring to see how this event has grown and how each of you have played a part in that mission today. I thank our speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and every attendee who believed in this vision. Together, we are shaping the future.”
Attendees also enjoyed networking opportunities during breaks, sponsor exhibitions, and a private lunch for VIP ticket holders, who engaged in deeper conversations with the speakers about shaping tomorrow.
TEDxPAU 2024 once again reaffirmed its commitment to “ideas worth spreading” and left attendees inspired to take action. For recordings of the event and updates on future editions, stay tuned.
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