Studying Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria: Here's Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering a career in Pure or Industrial Chemistry, Nigeria offers a wealth of opportunities that can lead to a fulfilling and impactful professional journey. 

As the most populous country in Africa with a rapidly growing economy, Nigeria has a vibrant chemical industry that spans various sectors including pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, food and beverages, and environmental management. 

Whether you are passionate about research and development, quality control, or production management, the demand for skilled chemists is on the rise. 

This dynamic field provides not only job stability but also the chance to contribute to innovative solutions that address both local and global challenges. Dive into a career that promises growth, diverse experiences, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference.

1. What Is Pure or Industrial Chemistry?

2. Benefits of Studying Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria 

3. Pros and Cons of Studying Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria 

4. Career Opportunities in Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria  

5. Universities that Offer Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria

6. Pure or Industrial Chemistry University UTME Subjects Combination

7. Pro Tips

What Is Pure or Industrial Chemistry?

Pure Chemistry is the study of the composition, structure, and properties of matter. Its fundamental is the curiosity and a desire to understand how substances interact at a fundamental level. It focuses on theoretical knowledge and laboratory research without immediate practical applications. 

Industrial Chemistry, on the other hand, applies this knowledge to create and improve products and processes used in everyday life. It involves the large-scale production of chemicals and materials. As an industrial chemist, you ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of products. 

Together, these fields offer a blend of theory and practice, making chemistry both fascinating and highly relevant to real-world needs.

Benefits of Studying Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria

Choosing Pure or Industrial Chemistry as a career in Nigeria offers numerous benefits, starting with the strong educational framework available in the country. Many Nigerian universities and research institutions provide high-quality programs that cover both theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry. 

Additionally, the presence of various industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals means that you have ample opportunities for internships and practical training. This exposure not only enhances your learning but also improves your employability upon graduation.

Also, the growing emphasis on local manufacturing and industrialization in Nigeria creates a high demand for skilled chemists. 

Secure roles in research and development, quality control, environmental management, and production processes. 

Additionally, there are opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures in chemical production and processing. So you can explore business opportunities within the industry. 

In essence, studying chemistry in Nigeria provides a robust educational foundation, diverse career prospects, and the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s development. 

Pros and Cons of Studying Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria

Pros

• Enjoy high-quality educational

• Explore numerous internship opportunities

• Find career prospects in research, quality control, and production

• Tap from the opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures

• Contribute to economic growth and sustainability

Cons

• Suffers limited funding for research projects

• Encounters inconsistent access to modern equipment

• Launches graduates into seeking employment in saturated market

• Faces stiff competition for job and most graduates end up teaching in secondary schools.

Career Opportunities in Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria

Chemistry is an established course in Nigeria. Almost all Nigerian universities that offer science programs offer it. So there are many graduates competing for the same job opening. 

The only hope you have in this field is to graduate with a very good grade. Think of first class or second class-upper. The opportunities you can leverage include: 

• Pharmaceuticals: Work in drug development, quality assurance, or regulatory affairs. Companies like Emzor and Fidson recruit chemists with salaries ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 monthly, depending on experience and role.

• Oil and gas: Engage in exploration, refining, and environmental management. Major players like Shell and Chevron offer positions with competitive salaries starting from ₦250,000 per month for entry-level roles.

• Food and beverage: Focus on product development, quality control, and safety standards. Firms like Nestlé and Dangote Flour Mills hire chemists with salaries typically between ₦100,000 to ₦300,000 monthly.

• Agrochemicals: Develop and test fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural chemicals. Companies such as Notore Chemical Industries and Golden Fertilizer pay salaries starting at ₦150,000 per month.

• Environmental management: Work on pollution control, waste management, and sustainability projects. Organizations like the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) employ chemistry graduates with salaries around ₦120,000 to ₦350,000 monthly.

• Academia and research: Teach and conduct research at universities and research institutes. Think of any university in Nigeria with a salary starting from ₦80,000. 

• Cosmetics and personal care: Develop and test beauty and personal care products. Companies like Unilever and PZ Cussons recruit chemists with salaries typically starting at ₦100,000 per month.

• Water treatment: Focus on ensuring safe and clean water supply. Water treatment plants and municipal water services employ chemists with starting salaries around ₦90,000 per month.

• Chemical manufacturing: Work in the production of industrial chemicals, plastics, and other materials. Companies like Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals pays salaries ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 monthly.

• Entrepreneurship: Start your own chemical production business. You can go into paint production or cosmetology enterprise.

Universities that Offer Pure or Industrial Chemistry in Nigeria

Ninety-eight percent of Nigerian universities offer Pure and Industrial Chemistry. The best 10 among them are: 

• University of Ibadan

• University of Lagos

• Obafemi Awolowo University

• Ahmadu Bello University

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka

• Covenant University

• Federal University of Technology, Akure

• University of Benin

• University of Ilorin

• Lagos State University

Pure or Industrial Chemistry University UTME Subjects Combination

Make sure you love mathematics before considering chemistry. It has numerous mathematical principles and applications. To study chemistry,

• Be a science student

• Have a minimum of five credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Biology in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB in not more than two sittings. 

• Apply for the UTME exam and register for English Language, Mathematics/Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Note that some universities offer Pure and Industrial Chemistry as a course, while universities like Obafemi Awolowo University separate the two into different courses. Make sure you find out which option applies to the institution you're aspiring to. 

• Score 230+ in JAMB. 

• Apply for the post-UTME exam and score 60% and above. 

Pro Tips

• Engage actively in laboratory sessions to gain practical experience and reinforce theoretical knowledge.

• Network with professionals and join chemistry-related organizations to build connections and stay updated on industry trends.

• Utilize online resources and journals to supplement your learning and stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field.

• Participate in internships and industrial training programs to gain hands-on experience and enhance your employability.

• Seek mentorship from experienced chemists and professors to guide your academic and career decisions.

Final Thoughts

Pure or Industrial Chemistry offers a dynamic and rewarding journey that provides a solid educational foundation, practical experience, and numerous career opportunities. 

With high-quality programs, state-of-the-art laboratories, and strong demand for skilled chemists in various industries, get ready to make significant contributions to both local and global challenges.

Actively engage in your studies, utilize available resources, network, and seek practical experiences to maximize your potential and carve out a successful and impactful career in the field of chemistry.