By: Ubong Usoro and Folorunsho Adegoke
The President of the Academy of Innovative Research, Science and Technological Development (ACIRSTD), Dr. Muhammed K. O. Balogun, has called for a stronger connection between academic research and real-world industrial needs to advance national development goals.
Speaking at the National Conference on Innovative Trends in Technology and Development held in Abuja, Dr. Balogun emphasized that much of the research in academic institutions remains confined to laboratories and shelves, with limited impact on industry or policymaking. “This disconnect weakens the potential of research to contribute meaningfully to national progress,” he said.
He further stressed the need to identify ideal systems that unite stakeholders including research institutions, industries, and businesses, to leverage opportunities and build a stronger research ecosystem. “A major step forward will be facilitating ongoing conversations among these stakeholders to align research outputs with national needs,” he noted.
The keynote speaker, Professor Adisa Bello, Immediate Past Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), addressed the theme: “Regulating the Innovation Space in Nigeria for Sustainable Development.” He highlighted the unprecedented pace of change in today’s world, noting that while Nigeria strives to meet its sustainable development goals, innovation must be managed and regulated with balance.
“Education is key in shaping innovation,” Prof. Bello said. “But we must add the principles of transparency, consistency, proportionality, targeting, and accountability to the way we manage innovation.” He concluded by advocating for a flexible regulatory system, one that permits freedom of thought and allows new ideas to thrive.
Also speaking, Prof. Akın Ogunsakin, President-General of ACIRSTD Worldwide, reiterated the Academy’s global outlook and called for more collaborative efforts in Nigeria to harness research for national growth.
Prof. Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, urged the government to invest in research and development. He stressed the importance of collaboration between leadership and research institutions to generate industry-compliant solutions.
Prof. Ibrahim Garba, Vice Chancellor of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, and a fellow of the Academy reiterated this, stating that Nigeria must institutionalize research and innovation through deliberate policies to position itself globally.
The Academy also used the occasion to confer fellowships on distinguished scientists, technologists, innovators, and industrialists, recognizing their outstanding contributions to science and technology.
