Nigeria has formed a strategic alliance with Switzerland through the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Innovation Park, led by Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
In a statement released on Saturday, Dr Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research Development Agency, announced and shared details of the partnership.
EPFL, located in Lausanne, Switzerland, EPFL is a prestigious federal university and one of the top Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology, alongside ETH Zurich.
Over 280 firms in cutting-edge fields including biotechnology and artificial intelligence are supported by EPFL Innovation Park, which was founded in 1993.
Dr Ale stated that this partnership aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, focusing on technology development and economic diversification. Minister Nnaji’s visit, according to the statement, demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to developing an economy driven by innovation.
Minister Nnaji highlighted the significance of coordinating Nigeria’s growth ambition with EPFL’s proficiency in sustainability, health, and digital trust, stating, “This partnership represents a bold leap for Nigerian innovation.”
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Partnership opens opportunities for local startups
“The collaboration opens doors for our local startups to leverage EPFL’s resources and mentorship,” the minister said, emphasising the park’s function as a link connecting scholarly research and market-ready products.
He further stated that the minister discussed potential areas of mutual benefit with Ms. Lan Zuo Gillet, Managing Director of Fondation EPFL Innovation Park.
“We are eager to collaborate with Nigeria and share our expertise in nurturing startups,” said Ms Gillet.
The partnership also highlights Swiss entrepreneurs’ growing interest in the Nigerian market, particularly in healthcare and renewable energy.
“The interest shown by Swiss startups could catalyse a technological revolution across our industries,” said Mr Nnaji said.
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Partnership to provide access to European markets
The minister said that the collaboration aims to provide access to European markets, increase Nigeria’s influence in global innovation, and open up new prospects for Nigerian researchers and entrepreneurs.
“By embracing Switzerland’s cutting-edge ecosystem, we are setting a new standard for science and technology leadership in Africa,” Mr Nnaji added.
He stated that the partnership is anticipated to provide noteworthy results, augmenting the country’s technological capabilities and generating high-quality job opportunities.
“This partnership is not just an exchange; it is a transformative step toward establishing Nigeria as Africa’s innovation epicentre,” he noted.