FG allocates N12bn to boost digital economy research in universities

The Federal Government has earmarked N12 billion to support research in the digital economy across universities and research institutions in Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Mr. Isime Esene, in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday.

According to Esene, the ministry will host a three-day virtual open day beginning April 7 to guide universities and research institutions on the National Digital Economy Research Clusters initiative. The programme is being organised through the Project BRIDGE Implementation Unit in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

He explained that the initiative aims to help eligible institutions understand and apply for the programme following the release of the Request for Expressions of Interest (EoI). The sessions will provide detailed information on the objectives, structure, and application requirements.

“All sessions will deliver the same content, allowing participants to join at their convenience,” he said.

Esene noted that the N12 billion programme is designed to bring together university-led research consortia to produce policy-driven research across six priority areas. These include connectivity and access, digital public infrastructure, digital skills and human capital development, jobs and livelihoods, trust and safety, as well as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

He added that the initiative will involve over 200 researchers and leading academics, with each research cluster receiving dedicated funding to ensure that findings contribute meaningfully to government policies and decision-making.

The virtual open day will also give prospective applicants the opportunity to engage directly with the Project BRIDGE Implementation Unit while receiving guidance on consortium requirements and submission processes.

Participation is open to vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors, rectors, directors, and senior research officials from eligible institutions.

Esene encouraged interested institutions to register through the official platform, noting that further details would be shared ahead of each session. He added that the deadline for submitting expressions of interest is 12:59 p.m. on April 13.