The President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Chris Piwuna, has raised concerns that Nigeria could mishandle research funding if proper structures are not established.
Speaking on Sunday during the Toyin Falola Interview Series, themed “Research, Innovation and Development,” Piwuna called for the creation of a legally backed national research council to oversee and coordinate research activities across the country.
He pointed out that Nigeria currently has over 60 research institutions, many of which are not performing effectively due to poor coordination and lack of clear direction. According to him, without strong oversight, large sums allocated to research could be misused.
Piwuna questioned how funds would be managed if significant investments were made, warning that without accountability, such resources might be diverted for personal or political purposes rather than research.
Also see: JAMB Summons 94 Candidates, 43 Institutions Over Exam Fraud Claims
While acknowledging a recent agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government, he stressed that funding alone would not solve the sector’s problems. The government, he noted, has pledged to dedicate one per cent of the nation’s annual GDP to research an amount estimated at about four trillion naira yearly.
He also urged stronger collaboration between universities and private companies, suggesting that industries could fund research that directly benefits their operations. He emphasized that partnerships among government, academia, and the private sector are essential for sustainable development.
Piwuna further highlighted the gap between policymakers and researchers, warning that this disconnect continues to slow Nigeria’s progress in innovation and development.
