The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has earmarked N12 billion to fund research in the digital economy across Nigerian universities and research institutions.
This was disclosed in Abuja by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Isime Esene, who said the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen policy-driven research and innovation.
According to him, the ministry will host a three-day virtual open day beginning 7 April to guide universities and research institutions on the National Digital Economy Research Clusters initiative.
The programme, organised through the Project BRIDGE Implementation Unit in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is designed to help eligible institutions understand and apply for funding following the release of the Request for Expressions of Interest.
Esene explained that the sessions would provide clarity on the objectives, structure, and application requirements of the initiative, noting that all sessions would cover the same content to ensure flexibility for participants.
He said the N12 billion programme is aimed at mobilising university-led research consortia to deliver policy-relevant research across six priority areas: connectivity and meaningful access, digital public infrastructure, digital skills and human capital, jobs and livelihoods, trust and safety, as well as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
The initiative is expected to bring together leading academics and over 200 researchers, with each cluster receiving dedicated funding to ensure research outcomes directly inform government policies and decision-making.
Esene added that the virtual open day would offer detailed guidance on programme expectations, consortium requirements, and submission processes, while also providing an opportunity for institutions to engage directly with the Project BRIDGE Implementation Unit.
Participation is open to vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors, rectors, directors and senior research officials from eligible institutions.
He urged interested institutions to register ahead of the sessions, noting that details for participation would be communicated in advance, while the deadline for submission of expressions of interest is April 13.