Nigeria, Ghana to Benefit from UK's £1.9m Science Initiative

UK Funds Science in Nigeria, Ghana with £1.9m

“The Sankore grant fosters partnerships at its heart, with a strong message that we go far when we go together...”

Nigeria, UK launch £1.9m Sankore initiative to boost innovation, science and technology in West Africa.

The UK West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH) has just launched Sankore, a £1.9 million initiative to boost innovation and technology in West Africa. This exciting project was announced by British Deputy Commissioner John Baxter in Lagos, Nigeria, on September 17.

Sankore aims to foster collaboration between the UK government, Nigeria, and Ghana in science, technology, and innovation. To achieve this, UK Minister for Africa Ray Collins is encouraging non-profits, including UN agencies, to submit innovative proposals.

Key Objectives of Sankore:

Promote Innovation: Support cutting-edge research and development in West Africa

Foster Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships between UK, Nigeria, and Ghana

Advance Technology: Drive technological advancements in the region

“The Sankore grant fosters partnerships at its heart, with a strong message that we go far when we go together.”

Nigeria's Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, is thrilled about the Sankore project's potential to boost the country's innovation ecosystem. He believes that by strengthening ties between industry and science, and creating a supportive policy environment, Nigeria can truly harness its innovative potential.

According to Minister Nnaji, this project presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to drive sustainable and inclusive growth. By fostering collaboration and mutual commitment, the Sankore project can unlock practical solutions that benefit the nation as a whole. This aligns with the Minister's vision for Nigeria's socio-economic development, where innovation, science, and technology play a pivotal role.

Key Strategies for Success:

Reinforcing Industry-Science Connections: Encouraging partnerships between researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to drive innovation.

Supportive Policy Environment: Creating laws and regulations that foster growth, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Practical Solutions for Sustainable Growth: Developing solutions that address real-world problems and promote inclusive development.

Minister Nnaji's commitment to innovation is evident in his efforts to establish lasting legacies in the sector. With the Sankore project, Nigeria is poised to take a significant leap forward in its socio-economic development journey.

Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner, emphasized that the Sankore project showcases the UK's dedication to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria. He noted that this initiative will strengthen partnerships between businesses and innovators, ultimately leading to the development of innovative solutions that address critical gaps in priority areas.

In his words, “Sankore exemplifies the UK's commitment to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.” This project is a significant step towards fostering economic growth in Nigeria and Ghana, with funding of up to £1.9 million.

Commenting, Jonny Baxter, the British deputy high commissioner said, “Sankore exemplifies the UK's commitment to driving innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.

“The project will strengthen partnerships between businesses and innovators as well as drive the development of innovative solutions that address critical gaps in priority economic sectors.

“The project will build on the UK's wider efforts to support economic growth, create job opportunities and propel Nigeria's technology and innovation ecosystem.”