Lagos State is preparing to pass an Innovation Bill by mid-2026 that aims to strengthen collaboration between universities and the private sector a move designed to accelerate research, product development, and technology growth in Nigeria’s commercial hub.

The Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Tumbosun Alake, revealed the plan during an interview with The PUNCH at the ongoing GITEX Global technology exhibition in Dubai. He said the forthcoming law seeks to formalise partnerships between academic institutions and businesses, enabling them to co-own intellectual property (IP) and share commercial returns from research breakthroughs.

“We’re currently at the formulation stage, with a first draft open for public review before it goes to the Lagos State Executive Council and then to the House of Assembly for first reading,” Alake explained. “We’re targeting Q2 or Q3 next year for its passage.”

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Bridging Academia and Industry

According to Alake, the proposed legislation will allow companies to commission university-led research projects tailored to their needs, creating a framework where innovation can thrive through shared ownership and collaboration.

“Imagine if a company like MTN or Airtel needs a new kind of radio device and commissions the University of Lagos to design it,” he said. “The university and the company could co-own the resulting innovation and even build a business around it. That’s how new products and services are developed globally and that’s what we want to institutionalise in Lagos.”

The bill, which targets high-impact sectors such as telecommunications, fintech, and manufacturing, is expected to catalyse commercialisation of research outcomes while fostering a stronger innovation ecosystem across the state.

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Building Africa’s Research Powerhouse

With over 20 million residents and a thriving technology scene, Lagos is already recognised as Africa’s startup capital, hosting leading innovation hubs, accelerators, and venture-backed startups.

Through its Lagos Innovates programme, the state government has been supporting early-stage founders with funding, mentorship, and co-working spaces. It has also partnered with global technology firms such as Google and Meta to boost digital literacy and entrepreneurship.

“This will help Lagos become the centre of research-based innovation and technological growth,” Alake said, adding that the initiative aligns with the state’s broader ambition to position itself as a continental leader in knowledge-driven development.

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A Model for Other African Cities

If successfully implemented, the Lagos Innovation Bill could serve as a blueprint for other African cities seeking to connect academia with industry and turn homegrown ideas into globally competitive technologies.

By aligning public institutions with private-sector innovation goals, Lagos is signalling its intent to move from being a consumer of global technology to a producer of innovation capable of driving sustainable economic growth.