The European Union (EU) delegation to Nigeria on Friday announced that Nigerian researchers are now eligible to partake in the EU research flagship titled “Horizon Europe initiative”, which is worth over €100bn in research grants
EU which made this disclosure through a statement released in Abuja on Friday, said the initiative is a new chapter in its collaboration with Nigeria to strengthen the country’s research and innovation ecosystem, with a focus on digital transformation, climate resilience, and sustainable growth.
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, who made this disclosure at the University of Lagos’ 18th Annual Research Conference, underscored the role of research in driving inclusive and transformative progress.
According to him, the EU’s partnership with Nigeria is built on shared priorities, empowering scientists, innovators, and young researchers to turn knowledge into impact across critical sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and health.
“Science is most efficient when it is universal, not when it bumps into borders. The European Union and its Member States are investing in research that advances the same green, digital, and inclusive transition we are pursuing in Europe, and we are proud to work with Nigeria to achieve this”, Mignot said, just as he also announced that the commission has proposed opening negotiations with Nigeria on a Science, Technology, and Innovation Agreement.
The proposed accord will create new pathways for joint research projects, academic exchange, and investment in technology infrastructure.
“This agreement will help bring our researchers, innovators, and universities even closer together. It will strengthen Nigeria’s role in the global innovation landscape and open more opportunities for young researchers and entrepreneurs”, Mignot added.
He also drew attention to the EU’s flagship Horizon Europeprogramme, a nearly €100 billion initiative that funds research and innovation across continents. Nigerian researchers, he noted, are eligible to participate.
“Horizon Europe is open to Nigerian researchers because the pursuit of knowledge belongs to all humankind. When science connects people, it builds a stronger, fairer and more sustainable world”, Mignot said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, commended the EU for its support, describing the collaboration as a milestone in Nigeria’s drive to strengthen its research capacity and harness innovation for development.
“Africa must embrace innovation that responds to our realities. Partnerships like this enable us to translate research into practical solutions, from sustainable energy to health and AI, that improve lives and empower communities”, Ogunsola said.
She added that the university is investing in a Human-Centred AI Research Hub focused on ethical and inclusive innovation.
