The federal government has commenced the Construction of the Sustainable and Emerging Technologies Institute (SETI) at Bayero University Kano (BUK), a project spearheaded by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). The institute, which sits on 30 hectares of BUK’s new campus, is expected to house state-of-the-art facilities, including Innovation hubs for artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. At the groundbreaking ceremony, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, emphasised the agency’s commitment to fully funding and equipping the institute to foster technological advancements and industrial growth in Nigeria. He reiterated NASENI’s belief in the capacity of young Nigerians to drive the country’s transformation through innovation.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, described the project as a major step towards placing Nigeria on the global map of industrialisation and technological development. He praised NASENI’s role in fast-tracking economic progress through initiatives that align with the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda. The Vice Chancellor of BUK, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, also expressed optimism about the impact of the institute, stating that it would strengthen collaboration between industry, academia, and government. He highlighted its potential to create jobs and equip young Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in an innovation-driven economy.
Agripreneurship training will drive economic growth.
In addition to SETI, NASENI is establishing an Agripreneurship Training Hub at BUK’s old campus, occupying 10 hectares and featuring modern greenhouses and facilities for soil-less farming and tissue culture. The initiative is part of NASENI’s broader mission to drive industrialisation, Support economic growth, and build capacity. Acknowledging the support of the Kano State government, the university community, and members of the National Assembly, NASENI expressed gratitude for their contributions to the success of these projects. The agency also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to advancing science, technology, and industrialisation in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the establishment of SETI signals a strategic Investment in Nigeria’s technological future, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application. As global economies shift towards knowledge-driven industries, institutions like SETI could play a vital role in positioning Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation. However, beyond infrastructure, there must be sustained efforts to ensure the institute produces tangible results. This includes attracting top-tier faculty, fostering industry partnerships, and creating an environment where research leads to real-world applications.
SETI needs more than just buildings to succeed.
Given Nigeria’s history of underutilised research centres, policymakers must ensure SETI does not suffer a similar fate. While funding and equipment are essential, a clear roadmap for integrating the institute into national development plans is equally crucial. Collaboration with tech firms, start-ups, and international research bodies could enhance its effectiveness and provide students with exposure to global best practices. Moreover, the government must prioritise policies that support Technology commercialisation, ensuring that innovations developed at SETI contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
To maximise SETI’s potential, there must also be a strong focus on Sustainability and long-term impact. Beyond the initial fanfare, the institute should be equipped with policies that ensure continuous funding, talent retention, and alignment with national development goals. Regular assessments and strategic adjustments will be necessary to keep pace with global technological trends. If properly executed, SETI could serve as a blueprint for future innovation hubs across Nigeria, reinforcing the country’s commitment to technological self-sufficiency and economic diversification.
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As Nigeria continues to grapple with youth unemployment, SETI presents a crucial opportunity to equip young innovators with the skills needed to develop homegrown solutions to local challenges. By fostering research, development, and industry collaboration, the institute could reduce reliance on foreign technology and contribute to economic growth. However, its long-term impact will depend on sustained investment, strategic partnerships, and a clear plan to translate research into real-world applications. If properly managed, SETI could become a model for innovation hubs across Nigeria, strengthening the country’s position in emerging technologies.