NBRDA DG Calls for Research-Industry Collaboration to Drive National Development

The Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has stressed the need to strengthen collaboration among research institutions, industry and government to accelerate innovation, technology commercialisation and national development.

Prof. Mustapha stated this on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving members of the Steering Committee of the International Conference on Science, Technology and Innovation (STICONF 2026) during a courtesy visit to the Agency.

He commended the committee for its efforts to promote collaboration within Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation sector, noting that

partnerships and sustained investment in research and innovation are essential to unlocking opportunities for national development and improved quality of life.

The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Interministerial Committee on STICONF, Dr. Victor Fadipe, and included the Chief Executive Officer of the Welcome to Nigeria Development Initiative (WENDI), Mr. Isa Sago; Director, Environmental Biotechnology and Bioconservation, NBRDA, Dr. Julius Oyedele; Director, Special Duties, NBRDA, Dr. Chitu Princewill; Dr. Joy Oladimeji-Salami of NBRDA; and Engr. Auwal Bununu of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA).

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Fadipe said the conference seeks to provide a platform for knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships and policy dialogue among key stakeholders in Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation sector. He emphasised the importance of collaboration among research institutions, industry and government in translating research findings into solutions that address national development challenges.

In his remarks, Mr. Sago commended Prof. Mustapha for his visionary leadership and commitment to advancing biotechnology research, innovation, capacity development and technology commercialisation in Nigeria.

He noted that NBRDA’s growing contributions in agriculture, healthcare, industrial development and environmental sustainability have positioned the Agency as a key player in the country’s science and technology sector.

The delegation also sought the participation and support of the NBRDA at STICONF 2026