EVALUATING THE ROLE OF DONOR AGENCIES IN ADVANCING INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE (SDG 9) IN NIGERIA.EVALUATING THE ROLE OF DONOR AGENCIES IN ADVANCING INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE (SDG 9) IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This article evaluates the role of donor agencies in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, in Nigeria. Drawing on secondary data from multilateral development banks, bilateral agencies, and national policy documents, the paper analyzes how donor interventions have contributed to infrastructure expansion, industrial diversification, and innovation ecosystems. Evidence highlights notable successes, such as the African Development Bank’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, the World Bank’s renewable energy mini-grids, JICA’s start-up hub initiative, and EU-UNIDO projects supporting circular economy approaches. However, challenges persist, including coordination gaps, fiscal sustainability concerns linked to debt-financed projects, and limited institutional capacity for long-term maintenance. The study concludes that while donor support has catalyzed important initiatives, maximizing impact requires stronger country ownership, blended finance mechanisms, and alignment with Nigeria’s industrial policy priorities.