A nanotechnology specialist, Lateef Agbaje, has said that advances in nanoscience could significantly reshape Nigeria’s textile sector by enabling the production of high-performance fabrics for healthcare, defence and industrial applications.
Agbaje, who heads the NANO+ Group at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, made the remarks during an interview on Tuesday in Abuja.
He expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s long-standing cotton production capacity, the country still depends heavily on imported textiles for domestic consumption, estimating that over 60 per cent of clothing used locally is sourced from abroad.
According to him, nanotechnology offers opportunities to revitalise cotton farming through improved crop varieties that can withstand harsh weather conditions, as well as the use of nano-enabled fertilisers and pesticides to boost yield and efficiency.
He noted that a revived textile industry powered by modern technology would not only generate employment but also contribute to economic growth and social stability.
The expert explained that his research interest in textile applications developed from earlier work on nanomaterials with antimicrobial properties capable of eliminating bacteria and fungi that resist conventional treatments.
He said these properties could be integrated into fabrics to produce self-sanitising textiles suitable for hospitals, laboratories and other environments where hygiene is critical.
“We explored the possibility of embedding nanoparticles into fabrics so that the material can actively eliminate microbes when exposed,” he explained.
He added that such innovation could be used in items like hospital bedding, laboratory coats, aprons and everyday wear such as socks, helping to reduce odour and microbial growth caused by sweat and moisture.
Agbaje further stated that nanotechnology could enhance textiles by making them water-resistant, fire-retardant, lightweight and self-cleaning, depending on the materials used.
He explained that certain nano-engineered fabrics are hydrophobic, allowing them to repel water, while others exhibit improved thermal resistance that reduces flammability.
He also noted that fabrics infused with nanomaterials tend to be lighter without losing strength, improving comfort and durability for users.
In addition, he said nanotextiles could help block harmful ultraviolet radiation, making them suitable for military and paramilitary uniforms exposed to prolonged sunlight.
According to him, research involving graphene-based fabrics has also shown potential for producing stronger materials that could be adapted into lightweight protective gear, including bullet-resistant vests.
“These materials can be designed to provide protection without the bulkiness of traditional body armour,” he said.
He added that nanotextiles could also improve camouflage effectiveness, dust resistance and waterproof capabilities for both industrial and defence applications.
Agbaje called on the Federal Government to establish clear policies and increase funding support for nanotechnology research and its commercial application in the country.
He also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between researchers, government institutions and private sector players to ensure laboratory innovations are translated into market-ready solutions.