The Director-General, National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT), Prof. Jeffery Barminas, has urged the Federal Government to commercialise science and technology research findings in the country.
Barminas advised on Wednesday during the institute’s Special Day at the ongoing 2024 Science, Technology and Innovation Expo in Abuja.
The sub-theme of the special day is titled “Investment Opportunities as Sure Path for Economic Growth and Revitalisation through Innovation Chemical Technology”.
The director-general also urged the legislature and relevant agencies to replicate the working template of the United States, Asia and Europe to grow the industry.
He said the industry was currently expanding in proportion to the growth estimate of Nigeria’s economy.
“There must be deliberate effort by the government to encourage the commercialisation of scientific and technological research findings.
“Chemical Industry experts in Nigeria should implore the legislature and relevant agencies to replicate the working template of the United States, Asia and Europe so as to grow the industry.
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“This market is diverse and ranges from basic chemicals like petrochemicals and polymers to specialty chemicals used in specific applications, such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and electronic chemicals.
“As we can see, there are numerous opportunities for Nigeria to explore in the chemical industry market.
“For this sector to play the role of the engine of growth, it must continue to diversify, seek product definition, be export-oriented and above all be competitive,” director-general said.
According to him, NARICT has established a ten-tone methanol production plant from natural gas and other renewable sources like biomass and waste that would lead to job creation and import substitution.
According to him, the production of precipitated calcium carbonate is found in pharmaceutical and allied industries.
“NARICT is to provide investment opportunities for economic growth through the natural endowment or resources we have in this country.”
NAN
