The Federal Government has called for expressions of interest under the National Digital Economy Research Clusters, a N12 billion funding initiative aimed at boosting research and strengthening evidence-based policymaking across Nigeria.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday.

In line with this, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is inviting academic and research institutions to submit proposals to either lead or collaborate within the newly established research clusters.

Tijani stated that the programme is designed to promote research-driven policymaking.

“Today, my heart is filled with deep joy as we announce the Expression of Interest for the National Digital Economy Research Clusters, a N12bn research funding scheme designed to place ideas, evidence, and research at the centre of Nigeria’s digital transformation,” he said.

He noted that numerous digital policies are frequently formulated without adequate research backing.

“Too often, the ideas shaping digital policy come predominantly from markets and political cycles rather than from research, evidence, and long-term thinking,” he noted.

He emphasized that as digital infrastructure grows, policies informed by research are essential to ensure inclusive benefits.

“As we deepen our digital infrastructure coverage, thoughtful, evidence-based approaches are required to be deployed in society to ensure everyone benefits from this significant investment,” Tijani said.

The initiative will establish six national research clusters focusing on the core pillars of the digital economy.

Each cluster will be headed by up to 36 professors from Nigerian universities, collaborating with international academic partners.

More than 200 researchers, including postdoctoral fellows and PhD candidates, are expected to take part in producing research that informs policy.

The N12 billion digital economy research initiative was first unveiled in November 2025 as part of the Federal Government’s effort to strengthen Nigeria’s role in the global digital landscape.

The programme is financed under Project BRIDGE, a federal scheme to roll out 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic backbone nationwide, enhancing connectivity and supporting a modern digital economy.