By Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Civic Foundation for Innovation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work on designing solutions aimed at addressing Nigeria’s development challenges.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Samuel Bwalya, UNDP Nigeria Country Director and Mr. Mosope Olaosebikan, Founder of Civic Foundation for Innovation at UNDP on Tuesday in Abuja.
The two organisations intend to work together in promoting innovation activities especially among the youth – within the context of UNDP’s flagship initiative, the Youth Employability, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme.
According to a press statement on Wednesday by Lucky Musonda, Head of Communication, UNDP Nigeria, the programme is aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of economic growth, productivity and employment. With over 40% of youths in Nigeria unemployed, the programme also aims at enhancing their skill levels so that they are employable.
The statement further said: “As the lead agency is supporting the Government of Nigeria in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP Nigeria intends to work with the Civic Foundation for Innovation in promoting innovation in the implementation of the SDGs at both Federal and State levels at which different ideas with potential to accelerate and/or contribute to governments efforts aimed at keeping the country’s SDGs promise will be explored.
“With numerous challenges faced by startups in turning their ideas into viable businesses, the two institutions will also work together in identifying and promoting access to innovative sources of finance for innovations and commercialisation of inventions. Additionally, efforts will be made aimed at strengthening capacities of the startups, innovation hubs and innovators across the country.â€
Bwalya was quoted to have said during the MoU signing ceremony, that he was looking forward to seeing the country’s youth come forward with ideas that will help address the numerous challenges Nigeria continued to face.
He said: “Innovation has potential to significantly contribute to addressing urgent development challenges in Nigeria; from youth unemployment and inequality to enhancing efficiency in the delivery of public services.â€
Olaosebikan said: “There are millions of creative minds out there; they need support in turning their ideas into solutions and viable businesses,†emphasising that since its establishment, his organisation had undertaken several activities that helped strengthen the startup ecosystem and that a partnership with UNDP will significantly enhance the national momentum aimed at moving the innovation agenda forward.
The two organisations also agreed to hold Innovation Awards to recognise ideas with potential to help address the country’s challenges.
