The Nigerian government has partnered with Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Innovation Park. This collaboration, led by Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, aims to bring advanced technology and startup support to Nigeria.
The announcement was made by Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research Development Agency, who detailed the partnership in a recent statement.
EPFL, based in Lausanne, is known worldwide for its contributions to science, technology, and innovation. The institution’s Innovation Park, established in 1993, hosts over 280 startups specializing in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
Through this partnership, Nigeria hopes to tap into EPFL’s resources and expertise to advance its own tech sector.
Dr. Ale highlighted that this initiative aligns closely with President Bola Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, which emphasizes economic diversification and technological progress as crucial pillars of national development. The visit of Chief Nnaji to EPFL symbolizes Nigeria’s commitment to an economy that is driven by innovation.
According to Ale, Nnaji’s approach underscores the Nigerian government’s dedication to establishing strong international alliances that can fuel economic growth through technology.
“This partnership represents a bold leap for Nigerian innovation,” Nnaji stated, affirming that the collaboration would enable local startups to access EPFL’s wealth of resources and mentorship. He pointed out that EPFL’s Innovation Park has a unique role in bridging academic research and commercial markets, a model that Nigeria is eager to adopt.
During his visit, Nnaji engaged in discussions with Ms. Lan Zuo Gillet, Managing Director of Fondation EPFL Innovation Park. Both leaders explored various opportunities for mutual benefit, with Gillet expressing her enthusiasm: “We are eager to collaborate with Nigeria and share our expertise in nurturing startups.” She conveyed the potential for Nigerian and Swiss startups to learn from each other, especially in areas like sustainability, health, and digital trust.
The partnership also opens up Nigerian markets to Swiss startups, many of which focus on renewable energy and healthcare. Nnaji noted that the interest shown by these Swiss companies could spark a technological revolution in Nigeria, benefiting industries across the country. He highlighted that the collaboration provides Nigerian researchers and entrepreneurs access to European markets, giving them a platform to expand and thrive internationally.
“This partnership is not just an exchange; it is a transformative step toward establishing Nigeria as Africa’s innovation epicentre,” Nnaji said, emphasizing its long-term impact. By adopting Switzerland’s innovative approaches, Nigeria aims to set a new benchmark in science and technology leadership within Africa.
