The United Kingdom has unveiled a £1.9 million funding initiative aimed at boosting economic growth in Nigeria and Ghana by enhancing technology and innovation.
This funding, announced by UK Minister for Africa Lord Collins, is part of the Sankore project, which focuses on strengthening these areas in the two countries.
The UK High Commissioner in Abuja noted that the initiative, through the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub (WARIH), seeks to foster economic development by bolstering technology and innovation.
Sankore will facilitate commercializing innovative solutions, improving innovation policies, and advancing government digital services.
The funding will support non-profit organizations, including UN agencies, in Nigeria and Ghana.
The project, named after a historic West African center of learning, aims to create partnerships valued up to £1.9 million.
Lord Collins highlighted that the Sankore project is designed to enhance global technology sectors and open up new opportunities for rapidly growing economies.
Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, emphasized the project’s role in improving industry-science linkages and creating a supportive policy environment for sustainable growth.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, added that Sankore represents the UK’s dedication to promoting innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria.
The project will support business-innovation partnerships and address critical needs in key economic sectors, furthering efforts to boost Nigeria’s technology and innovation landscape.
