The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has called on federal and state governments to significantly increase investment in scientific research, innovation and development, describing science and technology as essential drivers of national growth and sustainable development.

This came as the academy also advocated merit-based appointments to governing councils of universities and research institutions, prioritising individuals with relevant academic qualifications and governance experience.

It also urged a review of irregularities in the appointment of vice-chancellors, stressing due process and adherence to established procedures to ensure credible, stable and transparent leadership in tertiary institutions.

The academy made the call amid concerns about what it described as persistent underinvestment in research and development, governance challenges in educational and research institutions, and growing demand for science-based solutions to national problems such as climate change, energy transition, public health, food security and industrial competitiveness.

In a statement on Monday signed by its President, Abubakar Sambo, and Public Affairs Secretary, Chinedum Babalola, the academy said countries that have achieved sustained economic growth and technological competitiveness have done so through deliberate long-term investment in science and strong research institutions.

“Investments in science must extend beyond funding projects to include human resources capacity building, investment in research infrastructure, and strong institutional systems that underpin effective research and innovation,” the academy said.

The academy also stressed that governance within educational and research institutions is critical to ensuring transparency, accountability and operational efficiency, regardless of the level of funding available.

It said appointments to governing councils of universities and research institutions should be based strictly on merit, with preference given to individuals who possess relevant academic qualifications and demonstrable experience in the governance and administration of tertiary institutions.

According to the academy, the country’s foremost independent scientific body dedicated to advancing science, technology and innovation and promoting the use of scientific knowledge to address issues of national interest, such an approach would help ensure effective oversight, stability and institutional credibility.

The NAS further expressed concern over recent appointments of non-technocrats and non-specialists as chief executives of research institutes and science-based agencies, urging that such appointments be reviewed.

“Recent appointments of non-technocrats and non-specialists as chief executives of research institutes and science-based agencies should be reviewed and, where necessary, such appointments should be reversed to ensure that leadership of these institutions is entrusted to individuals with appropriate technical expertise, proven research credentials, and the capacity to advance national scientific and innovation objectives,” the statement said.

The academy also raised concerns about what it described as irregularities in the appointment of vice-chancellors in some universities, stressing the need for due process and strict adherence to established procedures to minimise controversies and ensure merit-based decisions.

It urged both federal and state governments to adopt its 2026 agenda aimed at strengthening investment in research and building credible, globally competitive institutions.

The academy said strengthening governance systems and investing in science would help foster a national culture of excellence, accountability and innovation in science and technology.