August 14, 2025 – Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has announced plans to partner with the University of Indonesia for Nigerian staff to participate in the Internship in Research (INSPIRE) scholarship program in Indonesia.
The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye, made this known when she received the new Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Bambang Suharto, and his delegation during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Wednesday, August 14, 2025.
Mrs. Esuabana highlighted that Nigeria and Indonesia have enjoyed a long-standing mutual relationship, which has contributed to the socio-economic development of both nations.
She stressed the importance of collaborating to digitalize government systems and enhance the training of ministry staff. According to her, this will improve productivity and positively impact Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
She further emphasized the need for greater investment in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to develop skilled manpower capable of competing globally.
“There is a need for Indonesia and Nigeria to collaborate in order to digitalize our system and train staff to improve productivity that will contribute to the GDP of the country,” she said.
The Permanent Secretary also commended Ambassador Suharto for his commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship, noting that such partnerships can drive technological advancements in both countries.
In his remarks, Ambassador Bambang Suharto stated that his visit aimed to consolidate the existing relationship between Nigeria and Indonesia.
He expressed a desire to focus on areas such as science and technology, pointing out that the two nations share common characteristics, including population size and agriculture.
“With these similar characteristics, the two nations can work together in science by applying technology to boost the blue economy, move from waste to wealth, and create opportunities for individuals to become entrepreneurs that will contribute to the growth and development of the country,” Ambassador Suharto explained.
The planned collaboration under the INSPIRE initiative is expected to not only strengthen educational and research ties between both countries but also encourage innovation, promote economic growth, and expand opportunities for Nigerian professionals in the global market.