As Nigeria seeks novel approaches to tackle the increasing environmental challenges that impact its ecosystem, human well-being, and economy, Nanotechnology has been identified as a potent tool that could potentially tackle these challenges and set the stage for a more sustainable future. Nigeria has an exceptional opportunity to take advantage of the Technology to solve its most pressing environmental problems. Its capacity to create materials and procedures that are more effective, economical, and environmentally friendly gives it the potential to completely transform environmental protection. Also, it offers distinctive solutions that traditional methods are unable to accomplish.
This technology holds the potential to contribute to the development of sophisticated filtration systems that can eliminate infections, heavy metals, and dangerous pollutants from water in the country. Thus, providing millions of people with clean drinking water while also improving general public health, especially in face of the country’s persistent problems with water contamination. Additionally, this advanced technology has the potential to reduce Pollution Emissions by developing more efficient industrial processes and better energy sources. This is essential to lowering air pollution in Nigeria’s cities, where traffic and industrial activity are the main causes.
Environmental scientists are pushing for the use of nanotechnology.
Soils impacted by Oil Spills and other industrial pollutants can be made more bioavailable through the application of nanomaterials. This is especially important in the oil-producing Niger Delta, where environmental deterioration has been caused by decades of oil exploration. An increasing number of Nigerian environmental scientists and professionals are pushing for the use of the technology to solve these environmental problems. Environmental technologist Dr. Felix Akpan highlights that the technology can open up new possibilities for Nigeria by offering more sustainable and clean solutions for waste management, pollution control, and energy production.
International organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have acknowledged the potential of innovative technologies like nanotechnology to address today’s most pressing environmental problems. Nigeria has initiated preliminary measures to foster nanotechnology by establishing research facilities dedicated to the advancement and utilization of this technology. The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and academic institutions are spearheading research into the possible uses of the technology, including environmental conservation.
Expediting the approval of nanotechnology policy is crucial.
Compared to other nations, Nigeria is still in the early phases of embracing the technology, and substantial funding is required to scale up these breakthroughs. Limited funding and awareness gaps for research and development continue to be major challenges. Currently, Nigeria trails behind other African nations like South Africa, which has advanced significantly in the field of nanotechnology. For instance, South Africa is leading the continent in the development of nano-based solutions for Renewable Energy and water purification, having established the National Centre for Nanostructured Materials.
When it comes to research and development (R&D) pertaining to nanotechnology, South Africa ranks top with 66%, followed by Egypt (59%), and Nigeria follows behind with (38%), as per report. By establishing international relationships, promoting public-private partnerships, and investing in the technology infrastructure, Nigeria can take inspiration from these precedents and increase the scope of its activities. If properly utilized, the technology has the potential to have a revolutionary effect on Nigeria’s environment. At this point, utilizing technology for Sustainable Development necessitates expediting the approval of the nanotechnology policy to fully realize its potential.
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According to the International Energy Agency (IA), nanotechnology could reduce Greenhouse gas emissions globally by 10% to 20% by the year 2050. Similar outcomes could possibly be attained in Nigeria if the country commits to stepping up its nanotechnology initiatives, which would promote environmental conservation, enhance public health, and result in large financial savings. Nigeria can leverage the potential of the technology to build a more sustainable and clean future through increasing investment, research, and cooperation with other African countries that have made significant advancements in the field.