By Abdullahi Lukman
The University of Ibadan (UI) has announced plans to collaborate with the Federal Government of Nigeria to address climate change through the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP).
This initiative, led by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), aims to promote clean technology innovation and entrepreneurship in developing economies.
The Vice-Chancellor of UI, Professor Kayode Adebowale, disclosed the planned collaboration during a visit by Mr. Ifeobu Ezenwa, a representative of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.
The visit was part of efforts to consolidate the university’s involvement in the GCIP and to strengthen research and innovation geared toward solving climate challenges.
Professor Adebowale welcomed the initiative, describing it as a strategic and multidisciplinary approach to tackling climate issues.
He noted that the university’s strong academic and research structures make it an ideal partner for such collaboration.
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He also highlighted that UI has the necessary committee systems in place to coordinate the programme across faculties and research centres.
He further described GCIP as a “town-gown” model that encourages partnerships between academia, industries, NGOs, and government institutions.
According to him, this kind of synergy is crucial for impactful and sustainable outcomes.
Speaking on behalf of the ministry, Mr. Ezenwa explained that the GCIP is supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The programme’s goals include accelerating innovation in clean technologies, supporting early-stage startups and SMEs, and fostering sustainable development by strengthening national innovation ecosystems.
Ezenwa added that the initiative also aims to support researchers and innovators in overcoming key challenges such as limited funding, regulatory barriers, and lack of access to markets.
He noted that participants will benefit from funding opportunities, business support services, training, mentorship, and networking with potential investors and partners.
Both parties expressed optimism that the collaboration would lead to impactful research and innovation capable of addressing Nigeria’s pressing climate challenges.
