The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), established in 1992, remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to build a robust and sustainable industrial base. As the Federal Government’s only purpose-built intervention agency, NASENI is mandated to nurture science and engineering infrastructure that drives homegrown and self-sustained industrialization. Recognizing the critical role of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in optimizing Nigeria’s vast human and material resources, the agency has made remarkable progress through its 11 Development Institutes, despite challenges ranging from funding constraints to human capital development.
A transformative chapter for NASENI began in September 2023, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Khalil Suleiman Halilu as the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and CEO of the agency. Halilu, a dynamic technopreneur with a wealth of private-sector experience, has infused NASENI with a results-driven ethos and a focus on market-oriented innovation. His vision is clear: to position NASENI as a leader in Nigeria’s technological revolution by adopting, adapting, and domesticating cutting-edge technologies to meet national needs. Halilu’s ambitious goal is for every Nigerian household to benefit from at least one NASENI product, a vision that has already begun to take shape.
In just one year under Halilu’s leadership, NASENI has recorded unprecedented achievements, including the rollout of 36 market-ready products. These innovations range from solar irrigation pumps, electric vehicles, and Android smartphones to smart prepaid meters, solar home systems, laptops, CCTV systems, and electric tricycles. Each product represents the agency’s commitment to fostering local content while leveraging collaborations with strategic partners and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). A standout achievement is the establishment of a major CNG reverse engineering center in Abuja, which supports Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy by reducing fossil fuel emissions and cutting fuel costs.
Halilu has also initiated bold reforms to strengthen NASENI’s governance, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness. The agency’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan sets a clear direction for the future, emphasizing innovation, commercialization, and economic impact. Under this framework, NASENI has rebranded its vision, increased its investments to $3.25 billion, digitalized its operations, and enhanced staff welfare. These initiatives have positioned NASENI as a critical player in technology transfer, contributing to Nigeria’s industrial growth and reducing reliance on imports.
Collaborations have been a cornerstone of NASENI’s progress. Halilu’s leadership has facilitated partnerships with local and international stakeholders across public and private sectors, culminating in groundbreaking agreements to commercialize NASENI’s innovations. The agency has also prioritized education and capacity building, launching a Hatch Box initiative for STEM education and establishing an Innovation Hub to foster creativity and entrepreneurship.
During a recent media briefing in Abuja, commemorating his first year in office, Halilu reiterated his commitment to making NASENI Nigeria’s leading technology transfer agency. He unveiled plans for retail showrooms to make NASENI products more accessible to the public, further underscoring the agency’s mission to deliver practical solutions for everyday challenges. He emphasized that NASENI’s successes stem from its adherence to the “3Cs” philosophy of Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialization, which has fueled its rapid advancements and market impact.
Looking ahead, NASENI is poised to drive Nigeria’s technological and economic transformation with a series of ambitious projects slated for 2025. These include the establishment of a Renewable Industrial Park, small arms assembly and ammunition production facilities, the NASENI Holding Company, and the NASENI Xceler8 Program. These initiatives are designed to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and solidify Nigeria’s position in the global technology and manufacturing landscape.
As NASENI accelerates its efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy through innovation and homegrown solutions, the agency is setting the stage for a future where technology drives sustainable development. Under Halilu’s visionary leadership, NASENI stands as a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s indigenous technological advancement, delivering on its mandate to foster science and engineering infrastructure for national progress.
