The Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has commenced a two-day stakeholders’ meeting to draft standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the National Policy on Chemical Technology and the National Nanotechnology Policy.
The event, held from October 28 to 29, 2024, in Abuja, aims to gather input from stakeholders on implementing these policies in alignment with the ministry’s mandate and presidential priorities.
The meeting brought together directors of the ministry, heads of agencies and academic representatives. In his opening address, permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. M.E.J. Bassey, represented by the director and head of chemical technology, noted that the SOPs would provide actionable guidelines for managing chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) incidents, while also supporting sustainable economic diversification.
This initiative aligns with United Nations Resolution 1540, which mandates all member states, including Nigeria, to prevent the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. Since its first report to the 1540 Committee in 2004, Nigeria has enhanced its legal framework, implementing safety protocols across sectors including health, environment, hazardous substances and border controls.
Nigeria’s 2019 National Security Strategy prioritises secure handling of CBRN materials. Additionally, the 2020 CBRN National Action Plan communicates national priorities for mitigating related risks and is currently under review. The ministry has developed the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, incorporating sub-policies on chemical and nanotechnology.
Bassey emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts, urging participants to contribute actively, as “each small effort contributes to the collective security Nigeria requires.” He concluded with a call to submit the draft policies for approval at the 2024 National Council on Innovation, Science and Technology meeting.
The meeting resolved to integrate civil society organisations (CSOs) in the implementation of the National Action Plan and to invite key stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigerian Armed Forces and Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, to participate in the upcoming National Council Meeting.
Dignitaries in attendance included Prof J.M. Nwaedozie from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna; Prof K.I. Omoniyi of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Prof Fabian Ezema of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, among other high-ranking officials and representatives from relevant agencies.
