The Federal Government says it will partner with Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Innovation Park to position Nigeria as Africa’s leader in technology innovation.
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), says the partnership will see EPFL Innovation Park delivering high-tech solutions in key sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, and digital security across the country.
Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, who met with Ms. Lan Zuo Gillet, Managing Director of EPFL Innovation Park, in Switzerland, disclosed that both parties share a vision for leveraging technology to strengthen Nigeria’s renewable energy, healthcare, and digital security. He also reflected on how the partnership will be of advantage to Nigerians.
“This collaboration unlocks unprecedented opportunities for Nigerian researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to access European markets and mentorship,” he stated, adding that the EPFL’s La Forge incubation “will foster local startups, stimulate job creation, and support economic transformation.”
According to the Minister, this will enhance Nigeria’s influence and impact on the global innovation stage.
The Minister explained that he and his team also engaged in high-level meetings with Swiss startups within EPFL’s incubator. He noted that their expertise in AI, Biotech, and Renewable energy will provide cutting-edge solutions for Nigerian industries.
In describing the EPFL, the Minister pointed out its proven track record of managing over 280 startups and its commitment to addressing global challenges like climate change and public health.
“EPFL brings invaluable expertise that aligns with our shared vision and key areas of our president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda, including economic empowerment, diversification, and technological advancement,” he said.
The partnership, the Minister said, will advance Nigeria’s place in the global innovation landscape, transforming the country into an innovative powerhouse, and paving the way for progress and a “direct path” to growth.
About EPFL
Established in the early 1990s, EPFL Innovation Park is a hub for tech startups. It offers incubation, acceleration, and training to help innovative projects that will boost and transform society. Since its inception, it has stood as a bridge between academia and industry, helping to develop advanced technologies and building startups to tackle global challenges and thrive in competitive markets.
The Innovation Park Impact in Nigeria
The partnership between Nigeria and the EPFL Innovation Park, Nnaji said, will bring a transformative change to the country by boosting local startups through access to mentorship and resources, facilitate knowledge transfer in advanced technologies, and create more jobs for Nigerians.
Additionally, it is expected to strengthen the system of innovation in the country, improve technology advancement in key sectors, and allow startups access to global markets. This will help the country realise its vision of being a leader in innovation on the African continent.
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