International Conference on Chemistry for Sustainable Development Held at University of Ibadan
From February 8 to 11, scientists from academia and industry convened at the International Conference Centre at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria to discuss “Emerging Technologies in Chemistry for Sustainable Development” during the 11th Annual Symposium hosted by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria Chapter.
Key Participants and Opening Remarks
The event was hosted by Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, vice chancellor of the University of Ibadan. Speakers included Franklin Aigbirhio, professor of molecular imaging at the University of Cambridge; Martin Onani, professor of inorganic chemistry at the University of the Western Cape; Martins S. Oderinde, scientific associate director at Bristol Myers Squibb; Mary Anti Chama, associate professor of chemistry at the University of Ghana; and Nevila Jana, assistant professor of chemistry at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Opening remarks were delivered by Ganiyat Oloyede, local organizing-committee chair, who emphasized the importance of research partnerships and collaborations. Edu Inam, chair of the ACS Nigeria Chapter, highlighted chemistry’s role in addressing global challenges such as public health, climate change, and energy security. Kingsley T. Ude, the Nigerian minister of innovation, science, and technology, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s science and technology ecosystem, focusing on deployable technologies and research commercialization.
Symposium Activities and Themes
The symposium featured keynote and plenary lectures, technical sessions, workshops, and an exhibition. Technical sessions covered emerging technologies in natural products, physical, theoretical, and mathematical chemistry, sustainability and innovations in chemical industries, green chemistry and nanochemistry, analytical chemistry, advances in AI-inspired chemical systems, and inorganic chemistry. According to Inam, emerging technologies in natural products and organic chemistry were particularly popular areas of discussion.
Workshops included sessions on artificial intelligence and publication.
Growth and Future Outlook
This year’s symposium saw increased attendance compared to the previous year. Inam anticipates further growth in future years, with increased participation from industry, government, and early-career scientists.
About the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan
The International Conference Centre University of Ibadan, established in 2009, provides facilities for events such as exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and weddings [University of Ibadan ICC]. The centre offers furnished halls with banquet chairs and tables, with options for Gold Chiavari chairs [UI-ICC].