The Federal Government has launched the Nigeria Genomic City, a national initiative to position Nigeria as a leading hub for genomics, biotechnology, and precision medicine.

Minister Maruf Tunji Alausa announced plans to create a National Research and Innovation Development Fund, expected to mobilize $500 million annually for research and innovation.

The project, conceived over 20 months ago, involves multi-ministerial collaboration to harness Nigeria's genomic resources for healthcare, food security, and economic growth.Alausa warned that failing to invest in science could turn Nigeria's growing population into a liability.The initiative aligns with President Tinubu's vision to transition Nigeria from a resource-dependent economy to a knowledge-driven one.The University of Abuja will host the project, supported by NITDA and other partners.The fund aims to strengthen data sovereignty, protect scientific resources, and attract international partnerships.It also seeks to develop a world-class scientific workforce and position Nigeria as a biotechnology exporter.