A review of nanotechnology as a tool of change in Nigeria

Abstract

Nanotechnology has generated diverse awareness and attentions nowadays and stand as one of the foremost alternative modern clean technologies of the 21st century. In spite of the essential benefits of nanoscience and technology, Nigeria is yet to key into nanotechnology initiative and strategy towards improving her socioeconomic development as well as transformation of important sectors. The benefits and opportunities these evolving technology offers are enormous, and have led to high expectations in the academics, industries and even government. As a consequence of the uniqueness of this technology in science and engineering, quite a vast numbers of nanomaterials are now been synthesized, characterized and fabricated to solve societal immediate problems. This is because nanoscience or nanotechnology have control over the properties of matter and therefore have the ability to create materials with specific properties that can be utilized for specific functions. Therefore, nanotechnological approach offer hopes of reshaping humanity and redefine human condition visa -vis reduction of pressure on the existing natural resources. Thus, this review focus on nanotechnology, its emergence, importance and perhaps its applications, most especially the significant contributions to policy makers, non-governmental organizations and the general public as a whole. This serves as one of the viable emergent technology for socioeconomic growth most especially in developing countries like Nigeria.