The Nigerian Academy of Science has expressed deep concern over the increasing migration of researchers and scientists from the country, warning that the trend poses a serious risk to the future of scientific research and development in Nigeria.
According to the academy, while the departure of health workers has received significant public attention, a quieter but equally damaging wave of migration is taking place within the science and technology sector. Many young and promising researchers are reportedly leaving Nigeria in search of better career opportunities, improved working conditions, and more supportive research environments abroad.
The academy noted that this steady outflow of scientific talent is particularly troubling because research thrives on strong collaboration between experienced senior academics and emerging junior researchers. When young scientists leave in large numbers, the continuity of research, mentorship, and innovation is disrupted. Over time, this weakens institutional capacity, reduces the quality and quantity of scientific output, and limits the country’s ability to address critical national challenges through evidence-based solutions.
It was stressed that without a critical mass of researchers, meaningful scientific advancement becomes difficult. Laboratories become underutilised, research programmes stagnate, and the pipeline for developing future scientists is gradually eroded. This situation, if left unchecked, could undermine Nigeria’s long-term competitiveness in science, technology, and innovation.
Despite these concerns, the academy expressed cautious optimism that the situation can improve with the right policies and sustained commitment from government and stakeholders. Recent reforms aimed at improving the management of research funding were highlighted as a positive step. In particular, efforts to ease some of the restrictions associated with the Treasury Single Account were seen as a potential boost to research productivity.
Previously, even when researchers successfully secured grants, accessing the funds was often slow and cumbersome. Funds were lodged in central accounts, and approvals for basic research needs such as purchasing laboratory reagents, conducting fieldwork, or collecting data were delayed. These bureaucratic bottlenecks frequently stalled projects, disrupted timelines, and discouraged researchers from pursuing ambitious studies.
The academy noted that improving access to research funding, decentralising approval processes, and reducing administrative delays would significantly enhance the efficiency of scientific work. Such reforms could also make the local research environment more attractive, helping to retain talent and even encourage some Nigerian researchers abroad to return home.
Looking ahead, the academy expressed hope that stronger policy support, increased and predictable funding, and deliberate strategies to retain skilled manpower would gradually reverse the trend of researcher migration. With sustained reforms and a renewed focus on building a supportive ecosystem for science and innovation, Nigeria’s research sector could begin to recover and position itself for steady growth in the years ahead.
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