Khalil Halilu Recognised at UK Parliament for African Innovation Leadership

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On 11 July 2025, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Nigeria’s National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), received the prestigious African Achievers Award at the House of Lords, UK Parliament. The 15th edition of the ceremony, a distinguished gathering of royals, global leaders, policymakers, and innovators, celebrated Halilu’s transformative work in bolstering Africa’s technological infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, and industrial development through his leadership at NASENI.

Hosted by Baroness Sandip Verma, Chancellor of the University of Roehampton and a prominent member of the House of Lords, the event shone a spotlight on African excellence and leadership. Halilu stood among an elite group of honourees, including public officials, business leaders, and philanthropists, all driving meaningful change across the continent.

In a stirring acceptance speech, Halilu underscored Africa’s potential to lead globally in innovation and industry. “This recognition is a profound honour, shared with visionaries dedicated to Africa’s ascent,” he said. “At NASENI, we’re turning ambition into reality, fostering indigenous solutions, and propelling Nigeria and Africa towards industrial self-reliance. The continent isn’t merely rising, it’s poised to lead.”

Under Halilu’s stewardship, NASENI has emerged as Nigeria’s foremost technology transfer agency, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The agency has prioritised local production in vital sectors such as clean energy, agriculture, transportation, and digital infrastructure, reducing reliance on imports and fostering sustainable growth.

Through its Accelerated Technology Transfer & Adaptation Strategy, NASENI is positioning Nigeria as a hub for innovation and self-sufficiency. Halilu expressed gratitude to the awards’ organisers and supporters, stating, “I extend my thanks to the African Achievers Awards team, Baroness Sandip Verma, and all who champion African ingenuity across the continent and diaspora. This award spurs us to redouble our efforts and build the future we envision.”

Now in its 15th year, the African Achievers Awards remains a premier platform for recognising African leadership on a global stage. This year’s event featured compelling addresses from figures like King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, Queen Olori Atuwatse III, and Dr. Fatou Bensouda, who called for unity and forward-thinking strategies to shape Africa’s future.

Halilu’s award underscores NASENI’s expanding influence across Africa, delivering homegrown technologies that tackle pressing challenges, promote sustainability, and accelerate industrialisation. His leadership signals a bold step towards a self-reliant and innovative continent, ready to claim its place on the global stage.