Over the past year, Khalil Halilu has led initiatives that are changing Nigeria’s technological landscape. Appointed by President Bola Tinubu on September 4, 2023, Halilu took on a critical role in improving the agency’s work in providing essential products for machine and equipment design, fabrication, and mass production. Facing challenges like underutilized research and development (R&D) outcomes, Halilu saw the need to commercialize NASENI’s innovations and build stronger relationships with the private sector.
Before NASENI, Halilu was a tech entrepreneur. He founded Shap Shap Technologies, and established CANs, West Africa’s first eco-friendly technology hub. His entrepreneurial spirit and experience in both public and private sectors have been important in finding solutions to Nigeria’s technological challenges. Embracing a mantra of “creation, collaboration, and commercialization,” Halilu refocused NASENI’s mission to actively engage with both local and international partners, making sure NASENI’s advanced products benefit all Nigerians.
Under Halilu’s leadership, NASENI has introduced several new technological products that show a commitment to innovation and job creation. These products, such as solar irrigation systems and electric vehicles, are designed to boost the economy and decrease Nigeria’s need for imports. By positioning NASENI as an enabler rather than a competitor to the private sector, Halilu has encouraged collaboration, leading to faster development and market entry.
In his first year, Halilu implemented the Strategic Launchpad initiative, which outlines NASENI’s short-, medium-, and long-term plans. The introduction of a new corporate logo shows NASENI’s commitment to forming closer alliances with the private sector. His strategy focuses on enhancing Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity, reducing imports, and using the economic advantages of the country’s different regions. This plan has given NASENI clarity and direction in addressing Nigeria’s technological needs.
A key achievement during Halilu’s time was forming several agreements with various stakeholders, including a $150 million partnership with Schenzen LEMI Technology Development Company to build a lithium battery manufacturing facility in Nigeria, and agreements with three Chinese companies valued at $2 billion. These collaborations include important projects, such as electric vehicle production and technology transfers, which will help domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Furthermore, NASENI’s partnerships with local entities like Galaxy Backbone Ltd and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security show the agency’s dedication to addressing national challenges. Through technical abilities, these partnerships aim to improve agro-allied industries and promote sustainable practices, creating thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to economic growth.
In just 365 days, Khalil Halilu has brought about a remarkable transformation in NASENI, making it a leader in Nigeria’s technological and industrial advancement. His focus on collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships has laid a strong foundation for future growth. As NASENI continues to evolve under his visionary leadership, the agency is set to make substantial contributions to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and become a crucial driver of technological innovation in the years to come. With such ambitious plans in motion, the future looks bright for both NASENI and Nigeria’s broader industrial landscape.
