Artificial Intelligence (AI) knowledge has been described as a driving force aimed at catapulting the society into modern world of science, innovation and creativity
“AI was created to empower the society to think faster and design smarter not to replace chemists as speculated,” Professor Edu J Inam, leader of the American Chemical Society has disclosed
Professor Edu who disclosed this while delivering her speech at the just concluded 10th annual symposium to celebrate a decade of scientific excellence organised by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria/ International Chemical Sciences chapter, also reflected on the significant successes recorded in the last 10 years
.”The four days symposium which has its themed as “Advancing Sustainability through AI -Driven Chemistry”, was held at the conference hall of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Abuja brought together leading scientists, policy makers and innovators to explore the transformative role of AI in shaping a sustainable future through chemistry.
“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 emphasised 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.
“Artificial Intelligenace 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, Artificial Intelligence 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.
In his remarks the Vice Chancellor of the NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, emphasised the transformative potential of AI in chemistry.
His words, “AI’s predictive and optimization capabilities are revolutionizing waste reduction, energy conservation, and process efficiency.”
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,” he said.
Also speaking, Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, announced Federal Government’s programme aimed at training 200,000 Nigerians in AI and emerging technologies, positioning the nation as a leader in digital innovation
The minister who was 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), 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 a key to driving sustainable innovation that benefits society and the economy,” he said.
