About Us

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is a pivotal institution established to drive Nigeria’s technological and industrial advancement. Tasked with fostering innovation, research, and development, NASENI plays a crucial role in developing the country’s scientific and engineering infrastructure. With a network of 12 specialized Development Institutes strategically located across Nigeria, NASENI focuses on various technological areas critical to the country’s growth, such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and industrial design.

Historical Background

Established in 1992 under the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida, NASENI was conceived to address Nigeria’s dependency on imported technologies and goods. The agency was designed to promote local innovation, build indigenous capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base. Backed by the NASENI Act, the institution was given the mandate to develop, adapt, and transfer technologies to accelerate industrialization.

NASENI’s establishment marked a turning point in Nigeria’s industrial journey, with the goal of bridging the gap between engineering research and industrial applications. Specialized development institutes under NASENI have worked on projects in key areas like solar energy, small hydropower systems, machine tools, and advanced manufacturing. These efforts aim to reduce reliance on imports and provide homegrown solutions to Nigeria’s infrastructural and industrial needs.

Over the years, NASENI has also prioritized human capital development by offering training programs to equip Nigerians with advanced technical and engineering skills. Its partnerships with international organizations and local industries have enabled technology transfer and the adaptation of global innovations for Nigeria’s unique challenges.

Mandate

NASENI operates under a unique mandate to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial and technological foundations. Its primary focus areas include:

  • Research and Development (R&D): Promoting indigenous innovation in science and engineering to create solutions tailored to Nigeria’s needs.
  • Technology Transfer: Adapting and applying foreign technologies to local contexts, bridging the gap between global innovation and national application.
  • Industrial Development: Facilitating the local production of machinery, equipment, and technical solutions to support industrialization and reduce reliance on imports.
  • Capacity Building: Developing human capital through specialized training and skill acquisition programs to drive Nigeria’s technological advancements.

Objectives of NASENI

1. Technological Advancement

NASENI was created to enhance Nigeria’s technological capabilities by promoting research, innovation, and development in key engineering and scientific sectors.

2. Indigenous Technology Development

The agency focuses on creating and deploying homegrown technological solutions to address Nigeria’s unique developmental challenges.

3. Industrialization

By providing technical support and infrastructure to local industries, NASENI actively contributes to Nigeria’s journey toward industrial self-reliance.

4. Job Creation

Through its support of technology-driven industries, NASENI promotes job creation and economic empowerment across various sectors.

5. Research and Innovation

NASENI conducts cutting-edge research and develops innovative solutions to societal challenges, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.

6. Technology Transfer

The agency bridges the gap between academia and industry by transferring knowledge and innovations from research institutions to practical applications.

7. Capacity Building

NASENI enhances the skills of Nigerian scientists, engineers, and technicians through targeted training and professional development programs.

NASENI collaborates with universities, industries, and international organizations to achieve its mandate of fostering innovation, industrial growth, and technological self-reliance.

Services offered by the Commission

The services offered by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) include:
  • Research and Development (R&D): Conducting research to develop innovative technologies and engineering solutions.
  • Technology Transfer: Facilitating the adaptation and domestication of foreign technologies for local applications.
  • Engineering Design and Manufacturing: Producing machinery, equipment, and tools for various industries.
  • Industrial Consultancy Services: Providing expert advice and solutions to industrial and manufacturing challenges.
  • Technical and Vocational Training: Offering programs to build capacity in engineering and technical fields.
  • Prototype Development: Creating models of new technologies for further development and commercialization.
  • Renewable Energy Solutions: Developing and promoting solar, hydropower, and other renewable energy technologies.
  • Industrial Equipment Maintenance: Supporting the maintenance and repair of industrial machinery and systems.
  • Standards and Quality Assurance: Ensuring products and processes meet international quality and safety standards.
  • Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Providing technical support to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
  • Infrastructure Development: Establishing and maintaining specialized institutes for science and engineering innovation.

Organizational Structure

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) oversees a network of specialized development institutes, each dedicated to specific areas of engineering and technology to address Nigeria’s diverse needs. These institutes include:

  • Advanced Manufacturing Technology (Abuja): Focused on the design, development, and production of advanced industrial tools and machinery.
  • Hydraulic Equipment Development (Kano): Specializing in the creation of hydraulic tools and equipment to support agricultural, construction, and industrial sectors.
  • Solar Energy Development (Lagos): Dedicated to the research and production of solar energy technologies, enhancing renewable energy adoption in Nigeria.
  • Small Hydropower Technology (Minna): Concentrated on developing small-scale hydropower solutions to address energy shortages in rural and semi-urban areas.

This structure ensures that NASENI addresses critical areas of technology and engineering across Nigeria, supporting localized solutions for national development.

Global Collaboration

NASENI actively collaborates with international organizations and partners, leveraging global expertise and resources to advance its mission. These partnerships facilitate technology transfer, provide access to cutting-edge innovations, and enhance Nigeria’s capacity to develop homegrown solutions. By tapping into global networks, NASENI strengthens its ability to tackle national challenges in areas such as renewable energy, industrial manufacturing, and capacity building.

Milestones and Achievements

  1. Capacity Development: NASENI has trained thousands of Nigerian scientists, engineers, and technicians, equipping them with the skills necessary to drive technological growth in various sectors.
  2. Innovation in Manufacturing: The agency has pioneered the production of locally manufactured machinery, industrial tools, and spare parts, reducing Nigeria’s dependency on imports and boosting industrial self-reliance.
  3. Renewable Energy Solutions: NASENI has spearheaded advancements in solar and hydropower technologies, providing sustainable energy alternatives for underserved communities and contributing to Nigeria’s energy diversification.
  4. Indigenous Research Breakthroughs: Through its institutes, NASENI has conducted significant research that has led to the development of innovative technologies tailored to Nigeria’s unique socio-economic landscape.

Summary

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) stands as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to achieving technological and industrial self-reliance. Since its establishment in 1992, NASENI has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation, advancing research, and supporting indigenous technology development across various sectors. Through its specialized development institutes and strategic global collaborations, the agency has addressed critical national challenges in renewable energy, manufacturing, and industrialization.

As Nigeria continues to position itself as a competitive force in the global economy, NASENI remains at the forefront, bridging the gap between research and industry while empowering the nation with the tools and expertise needed for sustainable development. Its ongoing efforts in capacity building, technology transfer, and innovation underscore its importance as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s long-term vision for technological advancement and economic independence.