From to , the University of Ibadan in Nigeria hosted the 11th Annual Symposium of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter. The event brought together scientists from diverse backgrounds – academia, industry, and government – to discuss “Emerging Technologies in Chemistry for Sustainable Development.”
The symposium, held at the International Conference Centre, featured a distinguished roster of speakers. These included Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, who served as chief host. Keynote addresses and presentations were also delivered by Professor Franklin Aigbirhio of the University of Cambridge, a specialist in molecular imaging; Professor Martin Onani, an expert in inorganic chemistry from the University of the Western Cape; Dr. Martins S. Oderinde, a senior principal scientist at Bristol Myers Squibb; Professor Mary Anti Chama of the University of Ghana; and Professor Nevilla Jana of MCPHS Boston.
The event’s opening remarks highlighted the critical role of chemistry in addressing global challenges. Ganiyat Oloyede, chair of the local organizing committee, emphasized the potential for the symposium to foster research partnerships and impactful collaborations. Edu Inam, chair of the ACS Nigeria Chapter, underscored chemistry’s relevance to pressing issues such as public health, climate change, and energy security. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s science and technology ecosystem, with a focus on translating research into deployable technologies and enhancing industrial competitiveness.
The two days following the opening ceremony – and – were filled with a comprehensive program. This included keynote and plenary lectures, technical sessions, workshops, and an exhibition. Specific sessions catered to different groups within the scientific community, such as a “younger chemist session” and a “women-in-chemistry session,” alongside sessions focused on industrial applications.
Technical sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics within chemistry. Presentations and discussions centered on emerging technologies in natural products, the principles of physical, theoretical, and mathematical chemistry, and innovations within the chemical industry. A significant focus was placed on sustainability, with dedicated sessions on green chemistry and nanochemistry. Analytical chemistry, advances in artificial intelligence-inspired chemical systems, and inorganic chemistry were also prominent themes. According to Edu Inam, “Emerging technologies in natural products and organic chemistry were the favorites, as there were many presentations in these areas.”
The symposium demonstrated growth in participation compared to previous years, indicating increasing interest in the intersection of chemistry and sustainable development. Inam anticipates continued expansion in future years, with expectations of attracting a broader audience encompassing not only academics but also representatives from industry and government, as well as early-career scientists.
The event’s focus on “Emerging Technologies in Chemistry for Sustainable Development” reflects a growing global recognition of the crucial role chemistry plays in addressing complex societal and environmental challenges. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, the ACS Nigeria symposium provided a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the development of innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. The emphasis on research commercialization and policy-relevant scientific evidence, as highlighted by Minister Udeh, underscores the importance of translating scientific advancements into tangible benefits for society.
The symposium’s success, as evidenced by increased attendance and a diverse program, positions the ACS Nigeria Chapter as a key driver of scientific progress and sustainable development within the region. The commitment to fostering collaboration and supporting early-career researchers suggests a promising outlook for the future of chemistry in Nigeria and beyond.
