TechQuest STEM Academy, in collaboration with Nithub, hosted the Omniverse Research Exchange in Lagos, Nigeria, at the week-long Omniverse Africa Summit 2025 This initiative aimed to connect African researchers and with the global community, fostering evidence-based innovation and impact.
The event gathered a diverse group of researchers, academics, funders, and innovators from across the globe, with a specific focus on Africa, serving as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the exploration of cutting-edge research to address critical societal challenges.
“Connecting African researchers with global opportunities is crucial,” stated Dr. Itoro Emembolu, Director of TechQuest STEM Academy during her opening speech. She emphasized that the Research Exchange facilitates meaningful dialogue and partnerships, increasing the visibility of impactful research and contributing to national development. She also called upon researchers, innovators, funders, and DFIs to actively participate in future exchanges to enhance collaboration and impact.
Dr Thuweba Diwani who is the Head of Projects, GIZ /Digital Transformation Centre, Nigeria and host partner at the Digital Transformation Room at the Omniverse summit gave a welcome address and Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa Ag Director of NITDA IT Hub (NitHub) and co-host spoke about how research-based innovation drives economic and technological advancement.
The Research Exchange had representations from Academia, industry, government and entrepreneur support networks including Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, Vice Chancelor Enugu State University of Technology, Dr Peter Bamkole, Deputy Vice Chancelor Admin, Pan Atlantic University, Engr. Dr Kabiru Mu’azu, Director-General National Research Institute for Chemical Technology NARICT, Mallam Naufal Ahmad, Director-General Katsina Directorate of ICT.
The Research Exchange was visited by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Charles Emembolu Co-convener of the Omniverse Africa, Inga Stefanowicz, the head of Section, Delegation of the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS.
Other partners for the exchange include Lagos State Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE), Leap Africa, Innov8, Genius Hub, Impact Investing Foundation, Block Capitol
Key Highlights of the Omniverse Research Exchange:
- Global Networking: Connections with researchers, innovators, funders, and DFIs worldwide
- Knowledge Sharing: Exchange of ideas and best practices in research and innovation.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Identification of potential collaborative projects.
- Enhanced Visibility: Showcasing impactful African research to a global audience.