The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) have launched the second phase of the DELTA-2 Programme, focusing on the commercialisation of research and development outcomes to benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria.
The initiative, a bilateral collaboration between the Nigerian government and the Czech Republic through the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TA CR), targets innovators, technology entrepreneurs, and researchers working in sectors such as agriculture, mining, advanced manufacturing, health technologies, and digital mobility.
The first phase of DELTA-2, launched in 2022, received 285 project submissions from Nigerian researchers and companies, with 25 projects funded in 2023. These projects have already generated innovative products, created jobs, and enhanced technology transfer across strategic sectors.
In his address, Dr. Dahiru Mohammed, Chairman of PICTT, described DELTA-2 as “a catalyst for job creation, enhanced productivity, and MSME growth,” adding that it aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports while improving global competitiveness.
Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of NASENI, highlighted the programme’s focus on outcomes rather than research for its own sake. “DELTA-2 supports projects that deliver market-ready solutions, new skills, and commercially viable products. It bridges the gap between the laboratory and the marketplace, empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive,” he said.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, emphasised that the second phase prioritises applied solutions that directly enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness, create jobs, and open new markets for MSMEs. He noted that DELTA-2 will focus on sectors including agriculture and food technology, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, climate technology, health, and defence innovations.
Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), described the initiative as a reflection of the government’s commitment to supporting innovation that drives economic growth. She called for similar programmes to extend opportunities to Nigerians in the diaspora.
Special Assistant to the President on Trade, Investment and Industry, Mr. John Ugochukwu Uwajumogu, added that technology transfer through DELTA-2 is central to achieving industrialisation, strengthening MSME capacity, and attracting domestic and international investments.
The second call for proposals invites innovators and entrepreneurs nationwide to submit projects with strong commercial potential, ensuring that research outcomes translate into viable products and services that benefit MSMEs and the wider economy.
