IChemE activity ramps up in Nigeria
17th February 2016
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE) have staged their first joint event following the decision to work together in 2015. More than 100 members turned out for a lively discussion on future energy solutions held at the University of Lagos, Nigeria.
Rahmon Ade Bello, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos and Professor Sunday Sam Adefila, Deputy President of NSChE, welcomed guests and set the scene for a debate that examined the impact of emerging world energy realties on chemical engineers.
IChemE's director of international development, Neil Atkinson, gave a keynote address which focused on the current global energy economy, and its impact on the profession. He highlighted the new IChemE Energy Centre and its work with policy makers to provide evidence-based solutions to energy challenges. The participants then offered their own insight based on direct experience within the energy supply chain of Africa’s largest oil producing nation.
The discussion also highlighted Nigeria’s fuel poverty challenge. Despite high volumes of oil production 44% of households in Nigeria have no electricity.1
Speaking after the event Neil Atkinson said; “A key aim for IChemE as we approach our centenary in 2022 is to develop our international links. Events like this build stronger links with our partners and help us to understand how the big challenges, including energy, affect different countries.”
Dr John Erinne, Chairman of international Affairs Committee at NSChE gave the closing address and said: “I am delighted to see such an engaged audience of engineers in this room. Together we will use our expertise and local knowledge to help NSChE and IChemE develop their partnership, and ensure that initiatives like Chemical Engineering Matters deliver global perspectives on key issues.”
The event’s discussions will contribute towards the development of future joint activity between IChemE and NSChE. More information can be found at www.icheme.org/nigeria.