The D-8 Network of Pioneers for Research and Innovation (D-8 NPRI) convened its Third Meeting at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, from 24-27 November 2024. The meeting aimed to enhance collaboration among the D-8 Member States to advance multidisciplinary research across universities and research institutions within the D-8 framework.

The event was attended by representatives of nominated universities from the D-8 Member States, thus reinforcing the network’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development. The Secretariat of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation was represented by its Director, Mr. Ahmar Ismail. Additionally, His Excellency Ambassador Isiaka Abdulqadir Imam, Secretary-General of the D-8 Organization, addressed the meeting, virtually.

In his keynote statement, Ambassador Imam emphasized on the critical role of the D-8 NPRI initiative in driving collaborative research and innovation, within the D-8 Member States. He presented four strategic recommendations, aimed at achieving tangible outcomes, for all members:

• Establishment of an E-Research Portal: A platform to connect governmental and private research institutions, across D-8 Member States, enabling seamless collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Setting up of D-8 NPRI Collaborative Innovation Hubs: Dedicated hubs focused on priority sectors such as biotechnology, green energy, smart agriculture, and advanced manufacturing.
• Formation of D-8 Innovation Challenge and Fellowship Program: Designed to attract and empower young researchers and graduate students from D-8 Member States, fostering the next generation of innovators.
• Increase Investment in Research and Development: A call for Member States to allocate more resources to R&D, to drive sustainable economic growth and innovation.

Continuing, Ambassador Imam urged all participants, at the meeting, to actively contribute to transforming research outputs into innovations that can significantly benefit D-8 nations and their populations.

The Chair of the D-8 NPRI, represented by Comsats University, Islamabad, also shared its commitment to advancing the objectives of the D-8 NPRI and fostering an environment conducive to impactful research collaboration.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, delivered an address, where he emphasized on the importance of partnerships that would benefit member states, communities, and students. He highlighted the need to leverage on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, gene editing, and quantum computing, to ensure the relevance of D-8 research initiatives, in shaping the future.

The meeting provided a platform to review the progress reports on the D-8 NPRI’s past activities. Representatives from member states’ universities shared their views, discussed achievements, and identified areas for improvement. The discussions culminated in outlining a roadmap for future activities, with a focus on translating research into actionable innovations.

Under the leadership of Professor Egbewole, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, the meeting accomplished several significant milestones. These included the adoption of the D-8 NPRI Charter, Plan of Action and the 2025 Calendar of Events, laying out a comprehensive framework for future initiatives. Additionally, two esteemed universities — University of Ilorin, Nigeria, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) — were formally integrated into the D-8 NPRI.

Located in the ancient city of Ilorin, approximately 500 kilometers from Abuja, the Federal Capital of Nigeria, the University of Ilorin has a rich history. Established in 1975 by a Decree of the Federal Military Government, it has grown from three faculties in 1976 to 16 faculties and 130 academic departments, cementing its position as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria.

The D-8 Network of Pioneers for Research and Innovation (D-8 NPRI) is a key initiative, under the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation. The D- 8 NPRI was established to promote interdisciplinary research and innovation, among its member states. The initiative underscores the D-8’s commitment to sustainable economic development through science, technology, and innovation.