Nigeria Advances Global Sustainability Initiatives, Says NASENI CEO

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Suleiman Halilu, articulated Nigeria’s emerging role as a leader in global sustainability and innovation during a keynote address at the 2025 World Association of Young Scientists (WAYS) Conference. The event took place on October 26, 2025, in Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. Halilu emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector in transforming policy ideas into actionable results.

Halilu noted that the relationship between governmental bodies and private enterprises is evolving, stating, “The bridge between government and private sector is becoming stronger, turning policy into practical outcomes.” He highlighted the synergy between policy and innovation as a means to create opportunities for citizens. “This is what progress looks like; policy meets innovation, innovation meets people, and people meet opportunity,” he explained.

Nigeria’s Leadership in Clean Technology and Youth Engagement

The NASENI CEO pointed out Nigeria’s proactive stance in areas such as clean technology, renewable energy, and green manufacturing. This progress is largely fueled by the creativity and dynamic energy of the country’s youth. “Young Nigerians, your ideas, your energy, and your innovation have a place at the global table. The world is watching what we build next. Let us move together,” he urged, calling for collective action toward a sustainable future.

Halilu reaffirmed NASENI’s dedication to adapting global innovations to meet Nigeria’s unique challenges. “It is not enough to import technology. We must adapt it. Domestication is how we make global innovation work for us in Nigeria,” he added. This focus on local adaptation is seen as crucial for leveraging technological advancements effectively.

Upcoming Initiatives: ZeCo by NASENI

During his address, Halilu also announced a new initiative, ZeCo by NASENI, scheduled to launch in 2026. This program aims to enhance clean mobility, renewable energy systems, and sustainable manufacturing practices. The initiative underscores Nigeria’s ambition to become a central hub for green innovation and solutions related to the circular economy.

“Nigeria’s journey to Net Zero is not just a national agenda. It is a global invitation to collaborate, to co-create, and to build a future that works for everyone,” Halilu concluded. His statements at the WAYS Conference reflect Nigeria’s commitment to leading in sustainable development while encouraging youth involvement and international collaboration in innovation efforts.