According to Odaily, the Nigerian government has announced plans to establish research centers in six geopolitical zones of the country. These centers will focus on key areas including the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain technology, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is responsible for this initiative.
In addition to funding research, NITDA aims to support Nigerian startups in leveraging these emerging technologies to develop products. The agency plans to create an innovation sandbox to assist startups in developing use cases, establishing businesses, and bringing products to market. This move is part of the government's broader strategy to foster innovation and technological advancement in the country.
The establishment of these research centers is expected to provide a significant boost to the Nigerian tech ecosystem. It will not only promote research and development in emerging technologies but also provide a platform for startups to test and refine their products. This initiative underscores the Nigerian government's commitment to harnessing technology for national development and economic growth.