NBRDA, Basani Sign MoU to Build Centralised Genomic Repository and Expand Digital Health Innovation
The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and Basani Digital Innovations Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s biotechnology ecosystem, expanding digital health innovation and accelerating national capacity in genomic research and data-driven healthcare solutions.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja on Monday, the Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, described the partnership as a major step towards modernising Nigeria’s scientific and healthcare sector. He said the collaboration will support one of the first national initiatives explicitly designed to create a centralised genomic data repository that aggregates genomic and health data for research, surveillance and public-health use.
According to him, this development will enhance disease monitoring, strengthen precision health capabilities and provide essential scientific resources for sectors ranging from public health and agriculture to private industry and research institutions.
Prof. Mustapha emphasised that biotechnology and digital innovation are now central to national development, adding that the partnership positions Nigeria for stronger continental leadership in biotechnology and artificial intelligence–enabled health solutions.
He commended Basani Digital Innovations for its commitment to advancing local innovation capacity and aligning with the country’s scientific goals.
In his remarks, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Basani Digital Innovations Limited, Mr. Basil Onochie
Ani, said the MoU “creates a bridge between scientific breakthroughs and real-world impact.”
He noted that while NBRDA has developed significant biotechnology innovations with the potential to transform diagnostics, research and local production, Basani brings the digital infrastructure, investment strategy and deployment capacity needed to scale these innovations across the country. “This partnership ensures that Nigeria does not only adopt global technologies but actively contributes to them,” he said.
The MoU outlines collaboration in genomic data infrastructure, biotechnology commercialisation, AI-powered health tools, tele-biotechnology services and capacity-building programmes for scientists, clinicians and young innovators. The goal is to translate biotechnology research into accessible, high-impact solutions that benefit citizens nationwide.
The agreement aligns with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Both organisations will begin joint implementation immediately, with expected gains in research output, improved healthcare delivery, job creation and national competitiveness in biotechnology.