A Professor of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, Rotimi Arise, has urged Nigerian universities to strengthen collaborative efforts with industries in order to fast-track Research and Development (R&D) in the country.
Arise made the call while speaking with newsmen in Ilorin on Thursday.
He said that Nigerian industries should see their involvement in research funding as a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.
The don who teaches in the Faculty of Life Sciences of the university, pointed out that “if we engage the industry in our research output, most of them won’t be gathering dust on the shelves.
“They will convert it to products that will contribute to the economic development of the nation.”
He added that universities should strive toward improvement in the areas of research and innovation with government’s support.
The expert in Biochemistry explained that his areas of specialisation were Enzymology and Biochemical Toxicology, adding that his major objective was to be able to leave his footprint in the history of Biochemical research in Nigeria.
Arise pledged to raise other researchers that would also grow and attain greater heights to be the frontiers of knowledge in scientific research.
He, however, appealed to government to come up with policies that would create an enabling environment for researchers.
Arise also called for regular and adequate funding for research in the country.
