Stage of Innovation: Idea (You have thought it through and documented it)

Problem: Nanotechnologies are innovative technologies. As such, applications of “nano” may be discovered at many unexpected places. There are claims that nanotechnologies have the potential to develop new innovative materials, devices and systems with wide-ranging applications, seemingly promising for solving many of the world’s current problems, like clean water supply, energy efficiency of renewable energy production, efficient cancer treatments and many others. Despite these potentials, awareness and applications are limited in Sub-sahara Africa, especially Nigeria. The research available on nanomaterials used in the products and their possible potential release is either inadequate or insufficient. Government, industries, consumers and workers are poorly informed and remain largely unaware. Further, nanotechnology worldwide market is expected to exceed USD$125 billion by 2024. Egypt, South Africa, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, in particular, have already invested in nanotechnology R&D and human capacity building or have ongoing research in nanotechnology. However, Nigeria has not prioritised nanotechnology, despite its potential.

Unique Selling Point: Much has been done globally in nanotechnology research, development and commercialisation but not so much has been done in Nigeria. Having conducted series of research in this area during my doctorate at South Africa and worked with nanotechnology research group, I am of strong motivation to bring this international exposure and contacts in creating local awareness for local consumption and production. My collaboration with the few local scientists and international researchers will further seek a solution to capture the value chain of technology assets and move the nanotechnology research from the laboratory to the marketplace. This solution will be adopted to determine a commercialisation strategy that matches their potential and is sustainable