When people talk about innovation in Nigeria, science is rarely part of the conversation. Our headlines are dominated by oil, politics, and the hustle of our vibrant business culture. However, this summer, I spent four weeks interning at a quiet powerhouse that completely redefined my idea of what innovation looks like in Nigeria.
At Katchey Laboratories, a world-class, independent analytical lab based in Ikeja, Lagos, I saw firsthand how this Nigerian institution is building local solutions to global problems. From. DNA sequencing to food safety testing, the work being done inside Katchey is not only critical, it’s transformative
On my first day, I was introduced to Katchey’s mission: “to provide reliable and high-quality laboratory results in a timely manner. “Their broader vision? “To become Africa’s number one independent analytical laboratory by partnering with global experts and manufacturers to deliver world-class solutions.”
Every department, every procedure, and every instrument reflected not just technical excellence but a deeper national purpose to make Nigeria self-reliant in scientific testing and analysis.
For far too long, our hospitals, food exporters, drug manufacturers law enforcement have had to send samples abroad for testing. Whether it’s a DNA test for a court case, a toxicology report, or pesticide residue in agricultural produce, we’ve depended on labs in the U.S., Europe, or Asia to get answers.
This reliance has meant delays, high costs, and even compromised data security. But Katchey is breaking that cycle. They’re building the infrastructure to process, verify, and certify vital data right here in Nigeria-quickly, accurately, and to international standards.
Inside the Lab
Genomics Lab
My time in the Genomics Lab was a mix of theory and hands-on learning. I attended several internal lectures and training sessions that covered the core techniques used in molecular biology: DNA extraction, PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and gel electrophoresis. These sessions broke down not just how the methods work, but why they’re important from solving criminal cases to tracking hereditary diseases.
What stood out most was when I got the chance to actually participate in a practical session. I performed a simplified DNA extraction and observed how PCR amplifies DNA for analysis.
Seeing the amplified DNA bands under UV light after gel electrophoresis was surreal-it turned abstract textbook concepts into something very real.
Analytical Chemistry Lab
In the Analytical Chemistry Lab, I worked on basic but essential tasks that introduced me to the rhythm of real lab work. One of the most memorable experiences involved preparing chemical solutions. I remember carefully adding drops of a reddish-orange reagent to hydrochloric acid and mixing them to form a solution, then using a vortex mixer to blend the sample properly.
I also got the chance to observe how precision and cleanliness matter in every step. Even something as simple as labelling or handling a beaker had to be done with care. The vortex spinner became a regular tool used to mix substances quickly and uniformly without compromising sample integrity.
Though I didn’t operate the more advanced machines like the HPLC or GC-MS myself, I watched closely as technicians set up tests and analysed results. Those observations helped me understand how food, cosmetics, and drugs are tested for safety and qualit,y something I’d never thought deeply about before this internship.
My Takeaways
1. I Learned Real Lab Techniques
This internship gave me the opportunity to go beyond theory and actually do science. I didn’t just observe, I participated. I learned how to:
Extract DNA from blood samples using professional lab protocols
Operate and understand PCR machines
Use a vortex mixer and centrifuge for sample prep
Make calculations to properly dilute and analyse real samples.
Handle samples with care and precision under lab standards
Record observations and ask meaningful scientific questions
I also learned how to make hypotheses based on data, think critically about lab outcomes, and understand the importance of controls and reproducibility. These are skills I’ll take with me far beyond the classroom
2. This Experience Inspired My Future
Before this internship, I imagined that to work in advanced science, I’d need to stay abroad. But now, I know that world-class labs can exist right here in Nigeria. More than that, I’ve seen how much impact they can have.
This experience inspired me to dream bigger: to one day return to Nigeria after my education abroad and contribute to building the country’s scientific independence. I want to be part of the next generation of innovators, researchers, and builders who make Nigeria not just a participant, but a leader in global science and technology.
3. Local Solutions do Exist
Perhaps the biggest lesson I took away is that we don’t always need to look abroad for excellence. It’s right here. Katchey Laboratories is solving Nigerian problems using global standards. They’re proving that world-class science can happen on Nigerian soil with Nigerian hands at the controls.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you to the entire team at Katchey Laboratories for welcoming a random 16-year-old boy, trusting me, and taking me under your wing. You didn’t just show me how a lab works, you showed me what’s possible. You’re not just building a laboratory; you’re building excellence, trust, and a future where Nigeria leads in science and innovation.
