December 13, (THEWILL) – The United Kingdom has reiterated its dedication to fostering Nigeria’s economic growth through innovation, research, and development.
This was emphasized during a recent visit to the country by Professor Charlotte Watts, the Chief Scientific Adviser for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
A statement signed by Ndidiamaka Eze, Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer and Communications Lead for Prosperity and Economic Development, highlighted that Professor Watts’ visit underscored the UK’s efforts to promote shared prosperity, sustainability, and solutions to global challenges.
During her tour of Lagos and Abuja, Professor Watts engaged with stakeholders and innovators driving Nigeria’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem.
In Lagos, she visited the University of Lagos and Hinckley Recycling, a UK-funded e-waste recycling facility specializing in second-life solutions for lithium-ion batteries.
She emphasized the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero goals while supporting Nigerian businesses in clean energy solutions to improve livelihoods.
Watts also met with creative industry representatives from the music, film, and content creation sectors to discuss a study commissioned by the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub on Nigeria’s creative landscape.
In Abuja, Professor Watts held high-level talks with Nigeria’s Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Uche Nnaji, focusing on plans to establish a domestically funded Science Granting Council.
Additionally, she met with Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), to explore opportunities for collaboration in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Her visit highlighted the UK’s commitment to leveraging innovation as a tool for sustainable development and economic advancement in Nigeria.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
