Overview

The Scientific and Industrial Research Act is a Nigerian legislation enacted on 15th October 1959 (No. 35 of 1959) that provides for the establishment and governance of scientific and industrial research institutes. The Act is structured into seven parts covering preliminary definitions, establishment and management of institutes, staff provisions, financial regulations, accounting and auditing, land issues, and miscellaneous matters. Key provisions include: the President may establish research institutes by order, subject to National Assembly approval; each institute is managed by a board that is a body corporate with powers to enter contracts, employ staff, and manage funds; boards have duties to manage institutes, advise the government, and conduct research; directors are appointed by boards with Ministerial approval; staff may be seconded from the Federal Government; boards must maintain proper accounts audited by the Auditor-General; land acquisition and restrictions on alienation are detailed; and the Act allows for dissolution of institutes and boards. The Act defines terms such as 'board', 'director', 'institute', and 'Minister'. It also includes provisions on bye-laws, committees, discipline, borrowing, investment, and powers of delegation.

Download