The American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter commemorated its 10th anniversary and Annual...
The American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria International Chemical Sciences Chapter commemorated its 10th anniversary and Annual Symposium with the theme “Advancing Sustainability through AI-Driven Chemistry.”
The symposium which held at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Abuja, from Sunday 4th to Wednesday, 7th May, 2025 brought together leading scientists, policymakers, and innovators to explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence in shaping a sustainable future through chemistry.
In her welcome address, Prof. Edu J. Inam, Chair of ACS Nigeria, reflected on the Chapter’s milestone achievements over the past ten years. This year marks not only a decade of scientific exchange and collaboration but also a reaffirmation of our shared vision, leveraging chemistry to build a more sustainable world,” she stated.
Prof. Inam emphasized the timeliness of this year’s theme, noting that as the world grapples with climate change, energy insecurity, and environmental degradation, AI-driven chemistry presents unprecedented opportunities. “AI is not replacing chemists, it is empowering us to think faster, design smarter, and innovate more sustainably,” she remarked. “From green manufacturing to pollution control, AI is accelerating discoveries that will redefine our future.”
She also highlighted ACS Nigeria’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and global scientific cooperation, reinforcing the role of society as a catalyst for progress in Nigeria and beyond.
Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN and Chief Host of the symposium, emphasized the transformative potential of AI in chemistry. “AI’s predictive and optimization capabilities are revolutionizing waste reduction, energy conservation, and process efficiency,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor who was represented by Prof. Chiedu F. Mafiana, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of NOUN, reaffirmed the dedication of NOUN to accessible, technology-driven education, urging the participants to translate the discussions at the symposium into actionable solutions. "These conversations must extend beyond academia, they are vital to building a knowledge-driven economy in Nigeria and across Africa.”
Speaking at the occasion, Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, announced the Federal Government’s programme aimed at training 200,000 Nigerians in AI and emerging technologies, positioning the nation as a leader in digital innovation.
Represented by Dr. Patricks Oghuma, Special Assistant to the Minister and Team Lead, Technical & Administration at the Ministry’s Project Delivery, Monitoring and Evaluation (PROD-ME), the Minister highlighted the critical intersection of AI and chemistry: “We stand at the forefront of a revolution where AI and chemistry converge to unlock new possibilities. This synergy is key to driving sustainable innovation that benefits society and the economy.”
Others who spoke at the event are: Dr. Dorothy Philips, ACS President; Prof. Leroy Cronin of the University of Glassgow, UK who presented a keynote lecture; Prof. David Wu, ACS International District Director, Prof. Paul C. Onyenekwe, DG of Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Abuja and representatives of other agencies of government.
ACS Nigeria extended its appreciation to partners, attendees, and supporters who contributed to the success of the symposium, reinforcing its commitment to advancing chemical sciences for societal benefit.
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