Khalil Halilu is gaining widespread recognition for driving Nigeria’s economic growth through innovation. As the Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), his efforts have begun to yield visible impact. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised NASENI’s progress under Halilu’s leadership during the agency’s second anniversary celebration of its current board in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, President Tinubu said NASENI is playing a vital role in Nigeria’s path to economic stability. He commended Halilu and the board for aligning with his Renewed Hope Agenda. The President noted that NASENI’s work reflects a clear commitment to local manufacturing, technology advancement and industrial development.
Khalil Halilu has led the agency with a focus on practical innovation. Since assuming office, he has championed local production and tech-enabled solutions to industrial challenges. NASENI, under his guidance, has launched initiatives in renewable energy, smart agriculture, and modern engineering tools. These efforts are already supporting job creation, encouraging local businesses, and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports.
The event in Abuja brought together government leaders, development partners and industry stakeholders. All of them acknowledged NASENI’s growing influence in economic development. They praised Halilu for turning NASENI into a hub for applied research and commercial solutions. Many said the agency is now helping Nigeria shift from a consumption-based economy to one that builds and exports.
Halilu said his team is driven by clear goals and national priorities. He thanked President Tinubu for his support and pledged to do more. Halilu explained that NASENI is targeting sectors like energy, agriculture, and engineering because they touch the lives of everyday Nigerians. He said the agency is building on partnerships, including recent ones with Indonesia and the Czech Republic, to strengthen its local output and increase knowledge transfer.
Khalil Halilu also shared that NASENI plans to open Technology and Innovation Centers in all six geopolitical zones. These centers will serve as training grounds for young Nigerians. They will offer hands-on learning, product development, and technical mentorship. Halilu believes this will support economic inclusion and inspire a new generation of Nigerian inventors and engineers.
One of the key milestones highlighted was the launch of the Made-in-Nigeria Solar Irrigation System. This system is being adopted by farmers in different parts of the country. It is helping to improve food security and reduce energy costs. Another is the ongoing work to produce electric vehicle parts locally, which will help Nigeria tap into the green transport market.
President Tinubu urged all ministries and government institutions to support NASENI’s initiatives. He said their collaboration is necessary for national development. He encouraged the private sector to partner with NASENI to scale up production and innovation.
Khalil Halilu driving Nigeria’s economic growth is no longer a quiet effort. His approach is strategic and people-centered. By focusing on results and partnerships, he is positioning NASENI as a key engine of transformation.
The praise from President Tinubu and the presence of high-level stakeholders show that Halilu’s leadership is working. Nigeria is at a point where innovation is no longer optional. And under Khalil Halilu, NASENI is proving that local solutions can drive lasting growth.
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