About CGRI
The Center for Genomics Research and Innovation (CGRI) is a not-for-profit Genomics Research and Innovation organization whose mission and commitment includes promotion and facilitation of investments in genomics-related research that aligns with areas of strategic importance to Nigeria and Africa such as public health, agriculture, energy, industry and environment.
Inaugurated in May, 2015, this center serves as the hub of high-impact genomics research in Nigeria.
The auspicious inception of Center for Genomics Research and Innovation (CGRI) emerged from Resolution 21 of the 13th Meeting of the National Council on Science and Technology (NCST), which held between 23rd and 27th June 2014 at Minna, Niger State. The Resolution mandated NABDA to establish an International Centre for Genomic Studies (ICGS) to bridge the knowledge gap in genomic research in Nigeria, address global challenges, and effectively harness emergent opportunities.
In furtherance of Resolution 21, an “Experts’ Roundtable Meeting on Advancing Genomics Research and Innovation in Nigeria” was held at the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA/FMST), Abuja, from 5th to 6th May, 2015. The Experts’ Roundtable spurred political support for genomics research and innovation. It identified gaps in genomics capabilities in Nigeria and fostered the creation of a viable collaborative community of genomics researchers, policymakers and industry players.
The Center for Genomics Research and Innovation (CGRI) aspires to develop a culture of technology-mediated research, which will enable Nigerian researchers in all genomic-related fields have time-efficient and cost-effective access to robust network of genomic technologies and innovation hubs.
A critical mission of CGRI is to establish a hub of Genomics Research and Innovation Network (GRIN) in Abuja, and as well, identify institutions with the requisite scientific capacity to serve as functional nodes. GRIN seeks to create an enabling environment for collective innovation, co-utilization of resources for the advancement of genomics research in Nigeria, and establish a database of scientists and institutions involved in genomics research in Nigeria.
