Migration of Nigerian Scientists Threatens Research and Development — Academy Warns

The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) has raised the alarm over the growing migration of researchers and scientists from the country, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s future in scientific research, innovation and development.

The Executive Secretary of NAS, Dr Oladoyin Odubanjo, expressed the concern on Monday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, while speaking on the outlook for science and research development in 2026.

According to Odubanjo, while the migration of health workers has received widespread attention in recent years, a similar and equally damaging exodus is occurring within the science and technology ecosystem, particularly among researchers.

“One of the big areas people are not talking about is the migration of researchers,” he said. “We know about health workers and all, but researchers are also leaving. Many of our young researchers are leaving the country.”

He explained that Nigerian scientists, especially early-career researchers, are departing in large numbers in search of better career prospects, improved research infrastructure and more supportive funding environments abroad.

“They are leaving in their numbers, going to look for career paths, and other countries are taking them away,” Odubanjo noted.

The NAS executive secretary warned that the continued loss of skilled researchers could weaken Nigeria’s capacity to generate knowledge, drive innovation and address critical national challenges through science-based solutions.

He added that research plays a central role in economic growth, public health, food security and technological advancement.

Odubanjo called for urgent and coordinated efforts by government, the private sector and relevant institutions to reverse the trend. He stressed the need for increased investment in research funding, improved working conditions for scientists, and the creation of clear and sustainable career pathways for young researchers.

“If we fail to retain our scientists, we will continue to depend on other countries for solutions to our problems,” he said, adding that strengthening the research ecosystem was essential for Nigeria’s long-term development.

The warning comes amid broader concerns about brain drain across key sectors in Nigeria, with experts urging policymakers to treat the issue as a national priority rather than a sector-specific challenge.