benefits that exist in the ICT sector of the economy. Therefore, by the end of 2015, a National Research and Development Agenda would have been developed and approved. 7.14.1 Situation Analysis Although there is some research and development (R&D) activity in the general area of Science and Technology, R&D in the specific area of ICT is, at best, very minimal in Nigeria. This adversely impacts innovation, reduces growth potential, and continues to constrain the realization of Nigeria’s huge ICT prospects. Therefore, to reverse the trend, there is a need to promote R&D activities to stimulate and sustain innovation in ICT. 7.14.2 Objectives i. To stimulate and encourage Research, Development and Innovation in ICT; ii. To harness and utilize the results of Research, Development and Innovation in ICT; iii. To ensure that adequate resources are provided for ICT related research; iv. To enhance collaboration among stakeholders in the design, execution, documentation and exchange of research ideas and results; and v. To ensure that by the end of 2015, a National Research and Development Agenda would have been developed and approved. 7.14.3 Strategies The Government will: i. Promote collaborative R&D in ICT and encourage stakeholders to support such efforts in relevant institutions; ii. Identify R&D focus areas with the involvement of Industry, Academia and Research institutions by 2013; iii. Set, review, and implement guidelines for ICT research and development initiatives; iv. Ensure development of national ICT standards, as well as contribute to global standards; v. Encourage collaborative ICT R&D in hardware and software as well as highend computing and socio-economic issues; !"#$%&"'()*+(,%'$-.(/(0120( ( ( ,"34(66(