The Vice-Chancellor of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, Kogi State, Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, has called for greater value addition to Nigeria’s mineral resources to boost local manufacturing and create jobs.
He made the call while delivering the 133rd Inaugural Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the University Auditorium.
The lecture was titled “Nature to Nature: The Mirage of Materials Longevity.”
It focused on the life cycle of materials, from extraction and processing to deterioration through corrosion and environmental interactions.
Prof. Salawu, a professor in the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at FUTMINNA, currently on leave of absence, described Materials and Metallurgical Engineers as central to Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
He criticised the continued export of raw materials and importation of finished products, calling it a major obstacle to industrial development and economic self-reliance.
He advocated sustainable mineral processing, improved corrosion and wear testing, development of advanced biomaterials and stronger collaboration between universities and industry.
The lecture showcased his research in mineral beneficiation, corrosion control, green corrosion inhibitors, composites, nanocomposites, construction materials and biomaterials.
Among the innovations highlighted were the beneficiation of Nigerian iron, manganese and gold ores, environmentally friendly gold extraction using borax, asbestos free brake pads made from agricultural waste, and anti-corrosion coatings for pipelines and tanks.
He also spoke about his research into locally sourced biomaterials and biocomposites for bone repair and biomedical implants, as well as converting agricultural and industrial waste into useful engineering products.
Prof. Salawu stressed that stronger collaboration among universities, researchers and industry would help turn research into practical technologies that address Nigeria’s industrial challenges.
He announced a N100,000 annual prize for the best graduating female student of FUTMINNA for the next 10 years, amounting to N1 million in total.
The endowment was established in honour of his mother, Hajiya Fatima Momoh Osheiza.
He also donated two photocopiers to the university and a laptop to the University Seminar and Colloquium Committee.
Prof. Salawu urged Nigeria to shift from exporting raw materials to value addition, local manufacturing and technology-driven industrialisation.
The Vice-Chancellor of FUTMINNA, Professor Faruk Adamu Kuta, presented a certificate and plaque to the inaugural lecturer in recognition of his contribution to knowledge.
He also thanked him for his generous donations to the university.
Other organisations, colleagues, friends and well-wishers presented gifts to the lecturer at the event, which was attended by academics, policymakers, industrialists, government officials and traditional rulers.
Digital Operations Manager at The Students Forum Nigeria.
