We are pleased to share exciting news for the Nigerian research and academic community: the first ORCID consortium in Nigeria, led by Eko-Konnect, has officially launched with three member institutions. This marks a significant step forward for scholarly collaboration and visibility, as well as a testament to the power of ORCID’s Global Participation Fund (GPF) and Membership Equity Program.
The Nigerian ORCID consortium exemplifies the transformative impact of the GPF, a program designed to provide financial and strategic support for organizations in underrepresented regions to establish ORCID consortia.
Lombe Tembo
Eko-Konnect: Pioneering research collaboration
Eko-Konnect, a trailblazing organization in advancing digital research infrastructure in Nigeria, is leading this consortium. With support from ORCID’s GPF, this initiative brings together academic and research institutions across Nigeria to streamline scholarly communication, foster collaboration, and enhance global research visibility.
The Nigerian ORCID consortium exemplifies the transformative impact of the GPF, a program designed to provide financial and strategic support for organizations in underrepresented regions to establish ORCID consortia. By leveraging the Membership Equity Program, Eko-Konnect and the other member institutions in the consortium—Covenant University and Landmark University—benefit from a more accessible path to ORCID membership, ensuring that resources are allocated where they’re needed most.
Why this matters for Nigerian researchers
The establishment of the Nigerian ORCID consortium creates opportunities for researchers and institutions to:
- Improve research discoverability: ORCID’s unique identifiers ensure that researchers’ contributions are accurately attributed, no matter where they’re published.
- Streamline research workflows: Members gain access to integrations that reduce administrative burdens and improve efficiency.
- Foster collaboration: A unified consortium provides a platform for Nigerian institutions to collaborate on shared goals and challenges in research management.
This consortium isn’t just a win for Nigeria, it’s a model for other countries seeking to enhance their academic infrastructure through collective action and global support.
Opportunities for interested organizations
As the Nigerian consortium demonstrates, it is possible to establish a new consortium with a small number of institutions. For Nigerian organizations, Eko-Konnect is actively welcoming new members to expand the reach and impact of this initiative. Joining the consortium offers a chance to be part of a growing network that’s shaping the future of Nigerian research. Nigerian organizations will have the opportunity to learn more about joining the consortium at the Eko Konnect Users Conference in Lagos, Nigeria, from 29–30 January, 2025.
Additionally, organizations worldwide that are inspired by this success story are encouraged to consider applying for the next cycle of the GPF. Applications will open in May 2025, offering a chance to access funding and support for establishing ORCID consortia in your region.
Join the movement—Be part of the change
The Nigerian ORCID consortium is a groundbreaking achievement, showcasing what’s possible when global resources meet local expertise and determination. Whether you’re a Nigerian institution looking to join the consortium or an organization elsewhere seeking support through the GPF, now is the time to take action.
Nigerian organizations, please get in touch to explore membership opportunities in the ORCID consortium. For others, mark your calendars for May 2025 to apply for the next GPF cycle and visit the Global Participation Fund page for FAQs and more information about the application process.
