education

Horizon Europe Empowers Nigeria’s Research Revolution

Published

1 year ago

October 24, 2025

Chigozin Obinna

Horizon Europe opens new research and innovation opportunities for Nigeria, driving sustainable growth and digital transformation

Horizon Europe is driving Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem into an exciting new era.

Also read: Yaba College of Technology seals pact with France

The European Union delegation to Nigeria announced on Friday that it is advancing collaboration focused on digital transformation, climate resilience, and sustainable growth.

At the University of Lagos’ 18th Annual Research Conference, EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot highlighted the significance of research in achieving inclusive and transformative progress.

He explained that the EU partnership empowers scientists, innovators, and young researchers to transform knowledge into tangible impact across sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and health.

“Science is most efficient when it is universal, not when it bumps into borders. The European Union and its Member States are investing in research that advances the same green, digital, and inclusive transition we are pursuing in Europe, and we are proud to work with Nigeria to achieve this,” Mignot said.

The Ambassador revealed plans to open negotiations on a Science, Technology, and Innovation Agreement with Nigeria.

The accord aims to create new pathways for joint research projects, academic exchanges, and investment in technology infrastructure, strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global innovation landscape.

Nigerian researchers are now eligible to participate in the Horizon Europe initiative, the EU’s flagship research programme with a budget exceeding €93 billion.

“Horizon Europe is open to Nigerian researchers because the pursuit of knowledge belongs to all humankind. When science connects people, it builds a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable world,” Mignot added.

The University of Lagos’ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, praised the EU’s support, describing the partnership as a milestone for Nigeria’s research and innovation capacity.

She emphasised that the university is investing in a Human-Centred AI Research Hub aimed at ethical and inclusive innovation.

“Africa must embrace innovation that responds to our realities. Partnerships like this enable us to translate research into practical solutions, from sustainable energy to health and AI, that improve lives and empower communities,” Ogunsola said.

PhD candidate Salami Mayowa Michael highlighted how AI is revolutionising research. “The EU’s support will give us the opportunity to leverage these tools more effectively and transform the way we teach, learn, and innovate,” he stated.

The Horizon Europe initiative focuses on excellent science, global challenges, and industrial competitiveness while promoting international collaboration.

It has already funded over 15,000 projects with more than €43 billion, supporting researcher mobility, training, and cutting-edge projects worldwide.

Also read: Ogun Traditional Rulers Urged to Lead with Integrity

With this partnership, Nigeria is poised to make a transformative leap in research, innovation, and sustainable development, harnessing the full potential of science to benefit society.

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education

Babcock Debunks Student’s Death Reports After Hostel Incident

Published

2 days ago

November 10, 2026

Mariam Balogun

Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, has dismissed reports claiming that a student involved in an incident at one of its residential halls had died, confirming that he is alive and receiving medical treatment.

The institution said the student was responding positively to treatment at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital following injuries sustained during the incident.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the university’s Associate Vice-President, Communication, Media and Branding, Dr Johnson B. Akintayo.

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 8, and attracted public attention after videos showing the student near a hostel window ledge circulated on social media.

The footage showed some of his roommates attempting to restrain him and prevent him from falling.

According to the university, the situation was brought under control through the prompt intervention of the student’s roommates, whose actions helped prevent a more serious outcome.

However, the student and one of the roommates who participated in the rescue sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for medical attention.

“Contrary to reports suggesting that the student may have died, we wish to assure the public that he is responding positively to treatment and is receiving the necessary medical care,” the statement said.

The university disclosed that the injured roommate had been treated and discharged, while the affected student remained under medical care.

It added that the student’s parents had been contacted and were already on campus to support him during his recovery.

Babcock University also announced that it had commenced an investigation to establish the immediate and underlying circumstances surrounding the incident.

The institution said the investigation would help determine what happened, identify possible contributing factors and establish measures to prevent a recurrence.

It urged members of the public and media organisations to avoid circulating unverified information or speculating about the cause of the incident while the investigation remained ongoing.

The university further commended the roommates who intervened, describing their prompt response as instrumental in preventing a potentially more tragic outcome.

It also appealed for sensitivity and restraint in public discussions about the incident, particularly out of respect for the student and his family.

Babcock reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, health and welfare of its students and employees, adding that it would continue to monitor the student’s recovery and provide the necessary support.