The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), Dr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji, FCIPM-UK, FPMA-UK, has extended heartfelt commendation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his bold, strategic, and patriotic decision to institutionalise the “Nigeria First” policy—a landmark move that signals a new dawn for Nigeria’s industrial rebirth and economic transformation.
In a statement issued from the NBTI Headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Raji hailed the policy as a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda, reflecting the President’s unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation, productivity, and inclusive prosperity.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ policy is not just a slogan—it is a bold declaration of intent and a transformational strategy. It prioritises Nigerian talent, Nigerian products, and Nigerian solutions. Under the visionary leadership of President Tinubu, Nigeria is rising—reclaiming its economic sovereignty and proudly wearing the badge of national self-reliance,” Dr. Raji said.
Dr. Raji emphasised that the policy is already inspiring far-reaching changes across the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, especially in the realm of science, technology, and industrial development. As the driving force behind Nigeria’s Technology Incubation Programme (TIP), the NBTI stands as a key beneficiary and catalyst of this bold national direction.
“With this renewed focus, our inventors, startups, and innovators now operate in an environment where their efforts are seen, valued, and empowered. The message from the Presidency is clear: Nigerian solutions are not just welcome—they are now a national priority,” he added.
The NBTI Boss praised President Tinubu for his courageous leadership, which has energized the nation’s MSMEs, increased funding for research and development, and bolstered support for local content in industrial production. These actions, Dr. Raji affirmed, have created fertile ground for the next generation of globally competitive Nigerian innovators.
He further applauded the administration’s strategic use of Executive Orders No. 003 and No. 005 as instruments of national development. According to him, these executive directives have laid the legal and operational foundation for prioritizing local professionals, materials, and solutions in all federally funded projects—especially those with science, technology, and engineering components.
“EO05 and EO03 are not just executive instruments—they are expressions of confidence in Nigeria’s capacity to build, to innovate, and to lead. They reflect Mr. President’s unshakable belief in Nigerian ingenuity and excellence,” Dr. Raji declared.
As Nigeria pursues an era of industrial resurgence under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the NBTI is strategically aligned with the President’s vision. Through dynamic partnerships with academia, industry, and government, the Board is scaling up its incubation platforms to nurture homegrown products that meet international standards and command global respect.
“At NBTI, we are committed to translating innovation into industry and ideas into impact. We are commercialising research and development outcomes that will birth new industries, create jobs, and uplift communities—just as Mr. President envisioned,” Dr. Raji affirmed.
He concluded with a stirring call to action:
“The ‘Nigeria First’ policy is a patriotic anthem, a moral imperative, and a national development blueprint. It is time for all Nigerians—whether in government, academia, or enterprise—to rally behind this vision. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is not just hoping for a better future—it is building it.”
Olajumoke David
Chief Information and Public Relations Officer
National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), Abuja
