Nigerian Academy of Science Intensifies Advocacy for 1% GDP Research Funding
The Nigerian Academy of Science has made a firm commitment to vigorously advocate for the full implementation of the Federal Government's pledge to allocate one percent of Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product to scientific research funding. This declaration came during the Academy's seventh annual scientific conference, where leadership emphasized that inadequate financial support has significantly hampered the impact of scientific research on national development.
Government Commitment Requires Persistent Advocacy
Professor Abubakar Sambo, President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, addressed attendees at the conference and during the presentation of the NAS Gold Medal for Life Sciences. He acknowledged that while the government has made a commitment to allocate one percent of GDP to research, transforming that statement into tangible action requires sustained pressure and advocacy from the scientific community.
"This was discussed, and the president recently decided that 1% of the GDP should go to research. That is what we are going to work to actualise," Sambo stated. "You know, a government statement is one thing; actualising it is another. But we are going to push for its full implementation."
The Academy's renewed advocacy campaign aims to ensure that research moves beyond academic publications to create practical solutions that directly address Nigeria's most pressing national challenges. This strategic shift recognizes that scientific discoveries must translate into market-ready innovations and policy implementations to truly benefit society.
Recognizing Excellence Despite Financial Constraints
As part of its efforts to strengthen research output and encourage scientific excellence, the Academy presented the NAS Gold Medal for Life Sciences to Professor Stephen Adefegha of the Federal University of Technology, Akure. The award recognized his groundbreaking research on the biological activities of Moringa oleifera, a plant traditionally used in Nigerian medicine.
Professor Sambo explained that financial limitations have forced the Academy to rotate the Gold Medal award across different scientific disciplines. The 2026 edition focused specifically on biological sciences, with plans to honor physical sciences in the next award cycle.
"This gold award, we're doing it deliberately to encourage up-and-coming researchers to strive to attain excellence in neuroscience and technology areas," Sambo noted. "Because of the financial requirements of the entire prize, we have a certificate, we have a gold medal, and we have one million Naira. We cannot do it in all segments. So, this year, we do it in biological sciences. Next year, we do it for physical sciences because of financial limitations."
Groundbreaking Research on Traditional Medicine
Professor Stephen Adefegha expressed gratitude for the recognition of his work on Moringa oleifera, explaining that his research aims to establish scientific models that validate the traditional medicinal uses of this plant. His work represents exactly the type of research that bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific validation.
In his acceptance remarks, Adefegha offered encouragement to young researchers, urging them to remain consistent, resilient, and committed to hard work. He emphasized that sustained effort eventually yields meaningful research outcomes and professional recognition, even in challenging funding environments.
Mentoring the Next Generation of Scientists
The Nigerian Academy of Science has established the Nigerian Young Academy as a strategic initiative to mentor early-career researchers, particularly recent PhD graduates. This program guides emerging scientists toward conducting impactful, market-driven research that addresses real-world problems.
"This year's theme is from research to the market," Professor Sambo emphasized, highlighting the Academy's commitment to ensuring research outputs translate into commercial applications. The Academy plans to collate expert advisory viewpoints and work closely with relevant government agencies and serious private sector players to facilitate research commercialization.
Broader Context of Research Funding Advocacy
Calls for increased research funding have intensified significantly in recent years across Nigeria's scientific community. Various stakeholders continue to stress that substantial investment in science and technology represents a crucial foundation for sustainable national development and economic diversification.
The Academy's advocacy aligns with broader national conversations about strengthening Nigeria's research infrastructure and creating an environment where scientific innovation can thrive. As the country faces numerous developmental challenges, from healthcare improvements to agricultural advancements and technological innovation, adequate research funding becomes increasingly critical.
The Nigerian Academy of Science's commitment to pushing for the full implementation of the 1% GDP allocation represents a significant step toward creating a more robust scientific ecosystem in Nigeria. Their efforts to recognize excellence despite financial constraints and mentor the next generation of researchers demonstrate a comprehensive approach to strengthening Nigeria's scientific capabilities for future development.
