A U.S-based Nigerian Researcher and doctorate candidate in Chemical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology, Paul Chukwuma Ani, has urged the Federal Government to invest in graphene technology and nanomaterials to tap into the global market projected to reach $1.4 billion by 2025.
He said Nigeria can be positioned as a leader in advanced materials technology by embracing graphene research and development.
Speaking in an interview, Ani maintained that graphene, a revolutionary material with exceptional properties, can transform various industries in Nigeria, including electronics, energy storage, water treatment, and medicine.
According to him, by investing in graphene, Nigeria can diversify its economy, create high-skilled jobs, attract foreign investment, and boost local innovation and entrepreneurship.
Ani, who is at the forefront of groundbreaking research on graphene, with ambitious plans to commercialize this revolutionary material in Nigeria, lamented that the progress of nanotechnology in Nigeria, including graphene, has been hindered by uncertainties, inadequate funding, and a lack of effective coordination.
He said: “MarketsandMarkets Research Pvt Ltd, a global research institute, projects that the global graphene market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand in various industries such as electronics, automotive, and aerospace.
The market size is projected to grow from USD 620 million in 2020 to USD 1,479 million by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19 per cent . This growth is fueled by the material’s exceptional properties and its potential applications across multiple sectors.
“While there have been some advancements in nanotechnology research, Nigeria still falls behind other African countries like South Africa in research output and patent registrations. The lack of a national policy and dedicated funding for nanotechnology further restricts its commercialization potential in the country.
Ani’s research focuses on the development and application of graphene- a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice.
He said the material which has garnered significant attention in the scientific community due to its exceptional properties, including Extraordinary strength (200 times stronger than Steel), excellent electrical properties and thermal conductivity and flexibility and transparency.
Despite these challenges, the researcher noted Nigeria stands to gain from the global advancements in graphene technology.
“By fostering collaborations with international research organizations and investing in infrastructure, Nigeria could significantly boost its capabilities in this emerging field.
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By joining the global race for graphene technology, Nigeria has the potential to become a key player in the future of materials science and engineering.
“As the world continues to explore the vast possibilities of graphene, Nigeria’s participation could not only benefit the country but also contribute to global innovation in this exciting field,” he stated.
