(DDM) – The European Union (EU), in partnership with the Nigerian federal government, is set to host the Nigeria–EU Science and Innovation Day in Lagos State on February 24, 2026.
The event, themed “Making Science Together”, aims to strengthen collaboration between Nigeria and Europe in the science, technology, and innovation ecosystem. It will convene researchers, innovators, policymakers, investors, and creative thinkers to explore ways of building robust science ecosystems that are mutually beneficial.
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, emphasized that strong science ecosystems cannot develop in isolation. He said they thrive when institutions, people, and creative talent are linked through trust, openness, and sustained investment.
Mignot noted that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation under frameworks such as the EU’s Global Gateway partnership, which promotes sustainable infrastructure, knowledge exchange, and innovation-led development.
“The Nigeria–EU Science & Innovation Day reflects a shared belief that science and innovation are strongest when partnerships are deep, inclusive, and built for long-term impact,” Mignot said.
He added that Nigeria’s scientific and innovation ecosystem holds immense promise. Closer cooperation with Europe, he said, will enhance the connections that allow ideas, talent, and solutions to move faster and reach further.
The event is designed to translate ambition into actionable collaboration with tangible societal benefits.
The one-day programme will include high-level conversations and panel discussions on key scientific and technological issues.
Additionally, young researchers will participate in a pitch session to showcase innovative solutions, while matchmaking meetings will link Nigerian and European organisations to foster partnerships and real-world impact.
Ambassador Mignot further reiterated that EU support for Nigeria’s science and innovation ecosystem is part of a long-term commitment to investing in people and building sustainable collaborations.
“For the European Union, cooperation on science and innovation is about investing in people and partnerships that can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria and Europe alike,” he said.
The event will provide a shared platform for exchanging ideas, demonstrating talent, and creating actionable pathways for scientific advancement. It aims to enhance the visibility of Nigerian researchers, encourage cross-border partnerships, and promote innovation that addresses societal challenges.
Through initiatives like the Nigeria–EU Science and Innovation Day, both parties hope to accelerate knowledge transfer, foster creativity, and ensure that science and technology contribute meaningfully to economic growth, social development, and regional integration.
By convening stakeholders across government, academia, and industry, the event seeks to ensure that collaborative research projects and innovative solutions are aligned with national priorities while benefiting from global expertise and investment.
This partnership highlights the growing emphasis on strategic international cooperation in science and technology as a driver for sustainable development and innovation-led economic transformation in Nigeria.
The Nigeria–EU Science and Innovation Day promises to be a milestone in consolidating long-term scientific collaboration, knowledge sharing, and impactful innovation across the two regions.
