By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
WOMEN in Chemistry (WIC) has urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and other relevant intervention agencies to urgently equip schools with functional science laboratories, warning that the absence of practical facilities is crippling science education and discouraging girls from pursuing careers in chemistry.
The call was made at the 2026 International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) Global Women’s Breakfast held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State.
Speaking at the event themed “Many Voices, One Science,” the Coordinator of Women in Chemistry, Dr Sarah Nwinee, described the state of laboratory infrastructure in many schools as deeply concerning.
“Chemistry is not a subject you can teach effectively on the blackboard alone,” she said. “Without functional laboratories, students are denied the opportunity to experiment, observe and truly understand scientific principles.”
Dr Sarah Nwinee
She noted that many secondary schools expect students to sit national examinations requiring practical competence despite lacking the necessary facilities.
“It is unfair to expect excellence where there is no enabling environment. If we want our girls to compete globally in science, we must provide them with the right tools,” Dr Nwinee stated.
Appealing directly to intervention agencies, she added: “Investment in laboratory infrastructure is an investment in the nation’s future. Agencies such as the NDDC and NEDC must see science education as a development priority.”
Dr Nwinee described the Global Women’s Breakfast as a strategic platform that unites women scientists worldwide to strengthen collaboration and mentorship.
“This gathering amplifies our collective voice. It reminds young girls that they are not alone and that there is a strong network of women thriving in science,” she said, noting that the 2026 edition marked her final year as Coordinator after serving since 2021.
Pupils at the event
A key feature of the programme was a secondary school quiz competition introduced to stimulate early interest in chemistry.
“The quiz is not merely about winning money,” Dr Nwinee explained. “It is about building confidence. When girls stand up to compete academically, they begin to see themselves as capable scientists.”
In recognition of growing sponsorship and impact, the prize money was increased fivefold this year, with the top prize rising from N50,000 to N250,000.
Prof Ellas Elemike
Chairman of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN), Delta Chapter, Prof Ellas Elemike, said deliberate efforts must be made to secure the future of science.
“As senior scientists retire, we need a new generation ready to take their place. That transition will not happen automatically; it requires mentorship and improved teaching methods,” he said.
He stressed the importance of practical and relatable teaching.
“Science must be taught as something students encounter daily — in the kitchen, in industry, in the environment. When science becomes relatable, especially to girls, participation increases.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Mariefel Olarte emphasised competence and resilience in scientific practice.
Winners and members of WIC
“Science demands integrity, transparency and continuous growth. Like riding a bicycle, you must keep moving forward to maintain balance,” she remarked.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, Simon Seaton, highlighted the critical role chemistry plays in sustainable oil and gas operations.
“You cannot talk about efficiency or sustainability in oil and gas without chemistry. Strengthening chemistry education strengthens the entire value chain,” he said.
Professor Mary Edema of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), described Women in Chemistry as a support system for female professionals.
Prof Doris and Prof Mary Edema
“We mentor one another, collaborate in research and encourage younger girls. Representation matters — when girls see women succeeding in chemistry, it changes their mindset,” she noted.
Addressing the issue of gender bias, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), FUPRE, Prof Doris Ogeleka, called for inclusivity in science communication.
“Women must speak up and claim their space in scientific discussions. Our contributions are valuable, and they must be recognised,” she said.
Winners of the quiz competition
At the end of the competition, College of Education Demonstration Secondary School emerged winner, receiving N250,000. Ogbe Secondary School placed second with N150,000, while Challenge Academy came third with N100,000.
Runners up
One of the winning students, Chukwuka Ngozi Favour, expressed gratitude to the organisers.
“This competition has inspired us to work harder. It has shown us that chemistry is not beyond our reach,” she said.
Participants and organisers alike expressed optimism that sustained advocacy, mentorship and improved infrastructure would pave the way for greater female participation in science across Nigeria.
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