By Ibrahim Idris, Bauchi
Leading chemists and policymakers have raised concerns over Nigeria’s fragile research infrastructure, warning that without urgent reforms, the country risks lagging behind in global scientific competitiveness.
The alarm was sounded at the 11th Annual Symposium of the American Chemical Society Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter, at the University of Ibadan.
Participants identified inadequate laboratory facilities, limited funding for research and development, and weak industry, academia collaboration as major barriers to innovation.
Despite Nigeria’s vast natural resources, speakers noted that the country continues to struggle with value addition and technological commercialisation.
Declaring the symposium open, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh (SAN), acknowledged the gap between resource potential and technological output.
Represented by Dr. Stella C. Igwilo, he outlined a three-point strategy: boost local content and value addition, increase strategic investment in R&D, and mainstream green chemistry and sustainable industrial practices.
Experts argued that modern laboratories, competitive research grants and policy-backed commercialisation pathways are crucial to reversing the trend.
They also stressed the need for renewable energy integration and sustainable chemical technologies to position Nigeria for the global green transition.
At the close of the symposium, participants issued a strong call for coordinated action, urging government, private sector and academia to align efforts in building a resilient research ecosystem capable of translating scientific discoveries into tangible economic gains.
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