Abuja: Chemists have been urged to develop marketable products from their research to address societal challenges, create jobs, and drive economic growth. Dr. Eniang Nkang, Chairman of the 2026 Chemists Business Roundtable, made this call during his welcome remarks at a business roundtable held as part of the 49th Annual International Conference of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Business Roundtable Discussion on Financing Chemical Innovations: Strategies for Startups and Entrepreneurial Growth was introduced to promote entrepreneurship among chemists and bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and commercialization. Nkang emphasized the importance of moving innovative ideas from the ideation stage to practical application, encouraging chemists to start, learn from the process, and continually improve.
Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Bank of Industry, World Bank, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), SMEDAN, and government representatives, gathered to explore financing and support for chemical innovations. The forum aimed to expose chemists to successful practitioners who have transitioned ideas from the laboratory to the market.
Mr. Tijanee AbdulGafaar, Chairman of the Industrial and Entrepreneurship Committee, CSN, urged chemists to adopt a growth mindset to turn scientific ideas into viable businesses. He highlighted the integral role of chemistry in everyday life and encouraged chemists to identify societal problems and develop practical solutions.
AbdulGafaar also pointed out the challenge of accessing affordable finance for startups, advising against high-interest loans that could undermine businesses with low-profit margins. He advocated for accessing grants as a more sustainable financing option.
Mrs. Oyebola Olugbemi, CEO of Royale Cleaning Solutions Ltd., echoed the sentiment that chemistry could support job creation by encouraging young Nigerians to develop products addressing environmental and societal challenges. She highlighted the importance of training and starting small before expanding.
Mrs. Edith Ihegwuagu, an Agricultural Chemist and CEO of Nedci Consultancy and Mushroom Farm, discussed challenges in her business, including inadequate water supply and electricity. She called for grants and support to establish facilities for mushroom production to help develop sustainable livelihoods.