News in brief:
– Nigeria’s Industrial Research Institute (FIIRO) has launched initiatives in agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy to boost Nigeria’s economy.
– It targets empowering youth, women, and small-scale industries with new investments in cassava processing and solar power solutions.
The Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO) recently announced innovative research initiatives to bolster Nigeria’s economic growth. These new projects, spearheaded by the institute’s director general (DG), Dr. (Mrs.) Jummai Adamu Tutuwa is poised to impact key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Dr. Tutuwa emphasised that FIIRO’s focus is on developing solutions that tackle Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
“Our goal is to develop cutting-edge solutions that address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and drive sustainable development,” she said.
The institute has been moving its research products to Nigerian markets, creating opportunities for investment in new technologies.
Additionally, it is prioritising youth and women’s empowerment by supporting small-scale industries, which are expected to contribute to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“We are loading the investment climate with viable research products that Nigerians can invest in to improve their economic status,” Dr. Tutuwa stated.
Addressing the Abuja office relocation
FIIRO also clarified the situation surrounding its corporate headquarters relocation to Abuja. According to a statement, the shift has not hindered its productivity or relevance.
Research and development activities, especially in its Lagos office, continue to thrive. The institute’s engineering department remains active, fabricating machines for small and medium-scale investors.
The relocation was due to a legislative process that took place before Dr. Tutuwa’s tenure.
“This is not the making of the DG but a collective process that passed through the eagle eyes of the Nigerian legislature,” FIIRO’s statement explained.
Ongoing research and development
FIIRO’s efforts in developing the cassava processing industry are noteworthy. The institute recently re-equipped its Lagos cassava plant, and modern processing plants have been set up in its zonal offices across the country.
It is addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges by installing solar power systems in several of its buildings and offices. The new administration has also paid off inherited electricity bills, and continues to run operations using a combination of solar power and generators.
The institute reaffirmed its committment to the welfare of its staff and the smooth running of its operations. It stated that there is a seamless succession plan to ensure that staff exits do not affect its productivity. Additionally, it is organising a comprehensive training program to keep staff updated on the latest developments in the science and research sector.
Since Dr. Tutuwa assumed office, FIIRO has made significant strides in research and development, positioning itself as a reference point for investors. The institute has renovated its laboratories and equipped them for optimal use, while research findings that were previously shelved have been revisited and tailored for the Nigerian market.
With a renewed focus on innovation and economic growth, the institute remains a critical player in Nigeria’s development efforts, providing the technical know-how and infrastructure needed for small, medium, and large-scale investments to thrive.
