The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), participated in the 2nd Edition of the International Conference on Science, Technology and Innovation (STIConf 2026), held from June 16 - 18, 2026, at the T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, Central Business District, Abuja.
The conference, themed “Bridging the Tech Divide: Strengthening Research Institutions – Industry Linkages for Achieving Africa’s Global Competitiveness,” brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, innovators, development partners, and stakeholders from across the science, technology, and innovation ecosystem to deliberate on strategies for accelerating technological advancement and industrial growth in Africa.
The conference aimed to promote stronger collaboration between research institutions and industry players, facilitate knowledge exchange, and foster the commercialization of research outputs.
FERMA was represented by some members of the Agency's Management Team, staff of the Research and Development (R&D) Unit, and officers of the Communications and Public Relations Unit. The Agency's participation underscored its commitment to embracing innovation, research-driven solutions, and emerging technologies in the management and maintenance of Nigeria's road infrastructure.
Throughout the three-day conference, participants engaged in keynote presentations, technical sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, and networking engagements focused on technology transfer, innovation policies, research commercialization, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and sustainable economic growth. Deliberations emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between academia, research institutions, government agencies, and industry to bridge existing technological gaps and enhance Africa's competitiveness in the global innovation landscape.
FERMA delegates actively participated in the sessions and interactions, gaining valuable insights into emerging technologies and innovative approaches applicable to road maintenance, infrastructure management, data-driven decision-making, and institutional development. The conference also provided opportunities for strategic networking and collaboration with key stakeholders within Nigeria's science, technology, and innovation ecosystem.
The Agency's participation aligns with FERMA's mandate of ensuring sustainable maintenance of the nation's federal road network through the adoption of modern technologies, research-based solutions, and best practices. It further demonstrates FERMA's resolve to leverage innovation and strategic partnerships in delivering efficient and effective road maintenance services to Nigerians.
At the conclusion of the conference, participants expressed optimism that the resolutions and partnerships emerging from the event would contribute significantly to strengthening research-industry linkages, accelerating technology adoption, and advancing Africa's quest for global competitiveness.