The federal government partners with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to advance domestic innovation and sustainable development efforts.
This was revealed on Wednesday by Felix Ehr, director of media and corporate communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency.
According to Ale, the collaboration was announced during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, when Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji met with USAID’s Chief Innovation Officer Mohamed Abdel Kader. It is said to have solidified. board member.
Nnaji quoted the ministers, noting that their discussions focused on leveraging technology to address pressing development challenges in Nigeria.
Nnaji said the meeting highlighted the urgency for innovative partnerships, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence, renewable energy and digital financial inclusion.
“These collaborations are important not only to improve the lives of underserved populations, but also to strengthen Nigeria’s burgeoning technology ecosystem,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the potential of technology to create impactful solutions that can uplift marginalized communities and contribute to economic growth across the nation.
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According to him, one of the central themes of the discussion was the role of AI in enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural practices.
He added that both sides recognized the need for technological innovations that can optimize agricultural technology, as food security has become a critical concern.
“By leveraging advanced technology, we aim to support smallholder farmers and meet our country’s growing food needs while ensuring sustainable practices.”
Nnaji said the focus on agriculture reflects a broader strategy to improve productivity and resilience to climate change, which poses a significant threat to food supplies.
Energy access, another key issue, featured prominently in the dialogue.
Mr. Nnaji added that the need for deployment of off-grid and renewable energy technologies is essential to achieving Nigeria’s energy goals.
He said the discussions also include opportunities for collaboration under USAID’s Power Africa Initiative, which aims to expand electricity access through cleaner and more sustainable solutions.
“We need to integrate AI into grid management and explore distributed renewable energy technologies to ensure reliable power supply to communities,” he said.
The minister said the importance of the meeting went beyond discussion as Nigeria and USAID agreed to formalize a partnership dedicated to identifying and scaling up innovative technologies.
