In what many experts hail as a defining moment for Nigeria’s innovation journey, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African government agency admitted into the World Association of Young Scientists (WAYS). This landmark inclusion marks more than institutional recognition—it signals Nigeria’s renewed commitment to global sustainability, scientific collaboration, and technology diplomacy.
For years, Nigeria has sought to elevate its profile within the global innovation ecosystem. Now, NASENI’s entry into WAYS places the nation firmly among forward-thinking economies shaping the future of technology and sustainable development. The agency’s admission underscores Africa’s growing capacity to contribute to cutting-edge scientific dialogue and solutions that address global challenges such as clean energy, digital transformation, and climate resilience.
According to innovation experts, this development reflects NASENI’s rising credibility as a catalyst for homegrown research, industrial innovation, and technology transfer. It also highlights the agency’s success in aligning its vision with global sustainability goals while promoting Africa’s inclusion in strategic technology networks. By joining WAYS, NASENI has created new pathways for Nigerian scientists and innovators to collaborate internationally, exchange knowledge, and gain exposure to emerging technologies.
Moreover, the agency’s admission is timely. The world is witnessing rapid technological disruption, with artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing reshaping economies. Nigeria’s active participation in global innovation networks ensures that its scientists are not left behind but rather positioned to contribute and benefit. NASENI’s membership will enable Nigeria to engage directly with global research hubs, forge new industrial partnerships, and attract foreign investment in science and technology.
This achievement also reflects the strategic leadership of NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu. Under his direction, the agency has redefined its role from a traditional research body to a dynamic innovation powerhouse driving national transformation. Through reforms focused on people, performance, and partnerships, Halilu has built a stronger foundation for collaboration across borders while deepening the culture of excellence within Nigeria’s scientific community.
Additionally, NASENI’s inclusion in WAYS reinforces Nigeria’s long-term goal of becoming a regional innovation leader. It symbolizes confidence in the country’s ability to generate world-class talent and contribute to solving global problems through science-based solutions. More importantly, it validates the government’s sustained investment in research and technology as critical enablers of economic diversification and national prosperity.
As the world looks toward sustainable and inclusive development, NASENI’s achievement sends a powerful message: Africa is not just a recipient of innovation but an emerging source of it. The agency’s success demonstrates how visionary leadership, international collaboration, and a clear innovation agenda can reposition a nation in the global scientific arena.
Ultimately, NASENI’s membership in the World Association of Young Scientists is more than a symbolic win—it is a transformative step for Nigeria. It opens new doors for collaboration, strengthens the country’s innovation diplomacy, and accelerates its journey toward technological sovereignty. The milestone serves as an inspiration for the next generation of African scientists who are determined to shape a better, smarter, and more sustainable future for the continent.
