Nigeria could significantly reduce dependence on imported ceramic products and create thousands of jobs through stronger investment in ceramic engineering, research and technology transfer, according to Chancellor of Mudiame University and Chairman of Mudiame International Group, Prof. Sunny Eromosele.
Speaking after participating in TECNA 2026, an international exhibition for the ceramics and surface industry held in Rimini, Italy, Eromosele said Nigeria possesses abundant raw materials but lacks the technical expertise and industrial infrastructure required to fully develop the sector.
He disclosed that Mudiame University plans to establish a pilot ceramic factory within the next six months following partnerships with several Italian technology organisations. The collaborations are expected to support manpower development, equipment production, research and technology transfer.
According to him, the university has secured agreements with leading Italian industry groups, including manufacturers of ceramic machinery and equipment, to strengthen practical training and industrial exposure for students enrolled in its newly approved ceramic engineering programme.
Eromosele noted that Nigeria spends heavily on ceramic imports despite possessing substantial deposits of clay, silica and other industrial minerals needed for local production.
He argued that expanding domestic manufacturing capacity would help reduce capital flight, improve job creation and strengthen industrial development across multiple sectors.
Beyond ceramic products such as tiles and sanitary ware, he said the technology could support broader industrial applications, including housing construction, metallurgy and advanced manufacturing.
The proposed pilot factory, he explained, will provide students with hands-on industrial experience while contributing to the development of locally adapted production technologies.
Eromosele also urged federal and state governments to invest more in specialised industrial education and research institutions, stressing that sustainable industrial growth depends on a strong relationship between universities and the private sector.
He maintained that developing local expertise would help Nigeria capture more value from its natural resources while reducing dependence on imported technology and manufactured products.
