Nanotechnology Can Revive Nigeria’s Textile Industry, Create Jobs and Boost Local Production — Expert

A nanotechnology expert, Professor Lateef Agbaje, has said that the application of nanotechnology could revolutionize Nigeria’s textile industry by enabling the production of advanced fabrics for healthcare, defence, and industrial purposes.

Agbaje, who heads the NANO+ Group at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, made the assertion during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s rich history in cotton production, the country still imports more than 60 percent of the clothing consumed locally. According to him, nanotechnology offers a pathway to reverse this trend by improving cotton farming and modernizing textile manufacturing.

The professor explained that nanotechnology can support the development of climate-resilient cotton varieties while introducing nano-based fertilizers and pesticides capable of increasing crop yields and improving agricultural productivity.

He noted that revitalizing the textile industry through scientific innovation would not only reduce dependence on imported clothing but also generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen social stability.

“The textile industry once provided jobs for millions of Nigerians. By integrating nanotechnology into the sector, we can restore its relevance and unlock new economic opportunities,” he said.

Agbaje revealed that his interest in textile innovation stemmed from years of research into nanomaterials with the ability to eliminate bacteria and fungi that are resistant to conventional treatments.

According to him, these antimicrobial properties can be embedded into fabrics to create self-disinfecting textiles suitable for hospitals, laboratories, and other environments where hygiene is critical.

He explained that textiles infused with nanoparticles can actively destroy harmful microorganisms, making them ideal for products such as hospital bedding, laboratory coats, aprons, socks, and other protective clothing.

The expert noted that unpleasant odors commonly associated with prolonged use of socks and other garments are often caused by microbial growth in moist conditions. However, nanoparticle-treated fabrics can eliminate these organisms, allowing the materials to remain fresher and more hygienic for longer periods.

Beyond antimicrobial functions, Agbaje highlighted several other advantages of nanotextiles, including water resistance, fire resistance, self-cleaning capabilities, and improved durability.

He said certain nanotextiles possess hydrophobic properties that enable them to repel water, while others have enhanced thermal stability that makes them resistant to fire and extreme temperatures.

Research conducted by his team also showed that fabrics infused with nanomaterials become lighter without sacrificing strength, making them more comfortable and practical for everyday use.

Additionally, he noted that nano-enhanced textiles can provide protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, making them particularly valuable for military and paramilitary personnel who spend extended periods outdoors.

Agbaje further pointed to advancements involving graphene-enhanced nanotextiles, which have demonstrated exceptional strength and could be adapted for the production of lightweight bullet-resistant protective gear.

According to him, future bulletproof vests could be designed to resemble ordinary clothing while still offering a high level of protection.

He added that advanced nanotextiles could improve camouflage, waterproofing, dust resistance, and overall performance for both military and industrial applications.

To unlock the full potential of nanotechnology in Nigeria, Agbaje called on the Federal Government to establish clear policies and provide increased funding for research, innovation, and commercialization.

He also emphasized the importance of stronger collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to ensure that scientific discoveries are successfully transformed into commercially viable products.

According to the professor, strategic investment in nanotechnology could position Nigeria as a major player in advanced textile manufacturing while reducing imports and creating new opportunities across multiple sectors of the economy.