RSU Hosts Nigerian Institute of Physics’ 46th Annual Conference, Champions Role of Physics in National Development

The Nigerian Institute of Physics (NIP) has held its 46th Annual Conference at the Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, with a strong call for deeper investment in physics education and research to drive Nigeria’s innovation and economic transformation.

Themed “Physics in the Quadruple Helix Model for Innovative Research and Economic Development,” the conference brought together leading academics, industry experts, policymakers, and civil society actors to explore the critical role of physics in national development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies Auditorium, the Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, welcomed delegates and expressed gratitude to the Institute for choosing RSU as the host.

He reiterated the importance of physics as a cornerstone for national development and expressed hope that the outcomes of the conference would yield actionable insights.

Noting he is eagerly awaiting the “conference communique”, which he believes will be of immense benefit to both the university and the nation.

Delivering his remarks, the National President and Chairman of NIP, Professor J. Coker, described physics as the “bedrock of Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Technology,” emphasizing its relevance to understanding natural phenomena and advancing other scientific disciplines.

He urged both state and federal governments to strengthen support for physics education across all levels, stressing that doing so would empower the Institute to contribute more meaningfully to national development.

In a keynote address, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Halilu, emphasized the value of the Quadruple Helix Model, Academia, Industry, Government, and Civil Society as a powerful framework to foster innovation and drive economic progress.

Highlighting physics-based applications in renewable energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and artificial intelligence, Halilu pointed to the need for stronger academia-industry partnerships.

He stated that NASENI is already advancing this vision through research funding, the creation of innovation hubs, and support for inclusive scientific initiatives, including women’s participation and community-based research.

Halilu also called for strategic policy backing from the government, increased funding for research, and incentives to stimulate private-sector investment in science and technology.

Earlier in his welcome address, A. Amakiri, Acting Head of the Department of Physics at RSU, acknowledged the presence of Fellows, members of the National Executive Council, and participants.

He noted that the conference was organized to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders in the physics community.

The 46th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Physics marks a significant milestone in strengthening the synergy between scientific research and national development, aligning closely with Nigeria’s aspirations for a knowledge-based economy.