PZ Cussons boosts research at UniJos with equipment donation
Onome Amuge
Consumer goods giant PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc has strengthened its commitment to supporting scientific research and education in Nigeria through a donation of modern chemistry equipment to the University of Jos (UNIJOS).
The initiative, executed in collaboration with the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), is considered a component of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at enhancing research capabilities and fostering innovation in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
The unveiling of the upgraded chemistry laboratory at the University of Jos was marked by a high-level commissioning ceremony. It was officiated by Uche Nnaji, minister of innovation, science, and technology, who was represented by Obiageli Amadiobi, the director-general of NOTAP. Other attendees included senior representatives from PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC, NOTAP, and the University of Jos, as well as members of the academic and corporate communities.
Addressing the gathering, Dimitris Kostianis, chief executive officer of PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, reiterated the company’s unwavering dedication to investing in education and innovation in Nigeria.
“At PZ Cussons, we believe that investing in education and scientific research is key to shaping the future of our nation. This donation, the 8th under our partnership with NOTAP, underscores our commitment to providing world-class research infrastructure that empowers students and researchers,” he stated.
Obiageli Amadiobi, the director-general of NOTAP, also spoke at the ceremony, commending PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC for its consistent and dedicated efforts towards advancing the country’s research and education sector.
Amadiobi remarked: “The donation of this state-of-the-art laboratory highlights the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing scientific and technological capacity in Nigeria. Through our partnership with PZ Cussons, we are ensuring that universities have access to the tools and resources they need to drive innovation and research excellence.
“This initiative is a demonstration of how corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be aligned with national development goals, particularly in the areas of science, technology, and innovation. We hope this serves as a call to action for other private-sector players to invest in Nigeria’s knowledge economy.”
The upgraded chemistry laboratory is designed to enhance research and learning opportunities for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, equipping them with the necessary skills to advance scientific discovery.
Faculty members at UNIJOS as well as student leadership commended the initiative, noting its potential to improve hands-on learning, experimentation, and capacity-building within the institution.