NARICT, Air Force Institute Partner to Boost Chemical Research, Training

The National Institute for Chemical Research and Technology (NARICT) has announced plans to collaborate with the Air Force Research and Development Institute to strengthen research capacity and training in Nigeria’s chemical and technological sectors.

The Director-General and Chief Executive of National Research Institute for Chemical Technology, Kabiru Muazu, disclosed this while receiving a delegation from the Air Force institute in Zaria.

Muazu said the institute’s core mandate is to conduct research and develop technologies that address humanitarian needs, environmental sustainability and national development priorities.

He added that NARICT is empowered to collaborate with relevant stakeholders and sister agencies to advance research and innovation across the country.

The Director-General noted that the proposed partnership would help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported chemicals by promoting local production and the use of indigenous resources.

He further explained that Nigeria loses millions of dollars annually to chemical imports despite having abundant local raw materials, stressing that harnessing these resources would boost socio-economic development, particularly in agriculture, healthcare and education.

In his remarks, the Director of Armament Research and Development at the Air Force Research and Development Institute, O.A. Abu, said the visit was aimed at fostering collaboration in research and training to address emerging security challenges.

He described research and development as a critical driver of national growth with direct impact on citizens’ wellbeing.

The partnership is expected to enhance indigenous capacity in chemical research and innovation, positioning Nigeria to better utilise its resources for sustainable development.