With the innovative production of a patented eco-friendly nanotechnology-based paints by Olayide Folashade Obidi, a professor of microbiology, Nigeria’s paint industry is getting a green upgrade from laboratory to market.]
This innovative production of eco-friendly paints started right in the laboratory of the department of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Lagos (UNILAG) and has transited into the marketplace with the approval from the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON).
Obidi made this known during the 20th Inaugural Lecture of the 2025/2026 Academic Session of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at the J. F. Ade. Ajayi (Main) Auditorium, UNILAG.
Titled: ‘From Micro to Nano: The Colourful Voyage of an Industrial Microbiologist,’ Obidi lecture was delivered under the chairmanship of Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG.
For years, conventional paints have contributed to indoor air pollution and environmental damage through high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful carbon-based gases that evaporate easily from liquids or solids into the air – usually used by paints manufacturers to make paints dry faster.
Her study produced nanoscale coatings that are more durable, self-cleaning, anti-microbial, and require fewer coats to cover a surface; resulting in less waste, lower cost over time, and better performance in Nigeria’s heat and humidity ecosystem.
Obidi innovative research set out with the question: What if paint could protect both walls and people? That question was answered with a patent solution that has now moved from lab to market.
Vice-chancellor’s comments on study
Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, who chaired the inaugural lecture in her closing remark commended the innovative stride of Obidi , who is the current head of department (HoD) of microbiology.
According to Ogunsola, the lecture took participants through an interesting progression of scientific inquiry from the study of organisms to their application in material science and nanotechnology.
She said that the lecture also demonstrated how research can evolve with changing needs and how knowledge from one discipline can be applied to address challenges in other fields.
‘Her work on microorganisms associated with paints and painted surfaces has contributed to our understanding of spoilage, microbial deterioration and shelf life,’ she said.
According to the vice-chancellor, Obidi’s studies also examined the challenge associated with increasing use of water-based paints, particularly their susceptibility to microbial attack.
She added that the research drew participants’ attention to an important paradox of why water-based paints offer advantages over solvent-based formulations because of the environmental concerns associated with VOCs.
‘This challenge provided an important platform for professor Obidi’s search for safer and more sustainable solutions. The lecture highlighted the application of her research beyond the paint industry,’ Ogunsola said.
Obidi’s journey to standardisation and market value
Obidi, in her lecture spotlighted the commercial potential of eco-friendly nanotechnology-based paints, showcasing how research innovation can move from the laboratory to the marketplace.
The lecture, which was the 20th inaugural lecture of the 2025/2026 academic session of the university, highlighted the development of sustainable nanotech paints as part of her contribution to advancing environmentally friendly materials and translating academic research into practical solutions.
The innovative study focuses on replacing hazardous materials used in conventional paints with bio-based and green nanotechnology alternatives that can provide microbial protection and improve coating performance while reducing risks to human health and the environment.
‘What inspired this is the constant request and demand for eco-friendly alternatives and sustainable alternatives.
‘Lead has been incorporated in order to speed up the drying and to prolong the shelf life, but we don’t want to do that because it’s going to affect people’s health,’ she said.
The professor of Industrial Microbiology and Bionanotechnology said her research journey, which spanned over 23 years, had progressed from testing raw materials and finished paints to developing products capable of addressing industrial challenges.
‘We actually started from raw material testing, paint testing and checking, but now we have moved to production and innovation so that we can solve real-world challenges,’ Obidi said.
Her work examines green nanomaterials for sustainable paint and coating production, including their potential as alternatives to conventional biocides in paints.
Beyond industrial applications, Obidi’s work has extended to STEM education. In 2021, she founded the Society for Girls STEM Education Africa, an initiative focused on encouraging female secondary school students to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The innovative voyage from micro to nano
What makes this innovation stand out is the sustainability angle. The paints are water-based, low-VOC, and made with locally sourced binders and pigments where possible.
That cuts import dependence and reduces carbon footprint. Early tests in schools and clinics in Lagos show 40% less repainting needs over 3 years compared to standard products.
‘This is not just about color; it’s about building healthier homes, schools, and factories while growing Nigerian manufacturing.’
Now, Obidi holds patents for the development of an environmentally friendly, non-toxic alternative to biocides paints, which was approved in July 2025.
‘Research should not end in the laboratory. It should be commercialised and beneficial to humanity.’
She disclosed that commercialisation is now the priority, and that discussions are ongoing with industry leaders that could lead to licensing arrangements under which manufacturers will take over production and sales of the formulations.
The professor said the next phase would involve partnerships with paint manufacturers and other industry players capable of taking the innovation to large-scale production.
According to her, the arrangement reflects a broader challenge facing Nigeria’s research ecosystem, where potentially viable university innovations often struggle to cross the gap between laboratory development and commercial deployment.
Obidi said stronger links between academia and industry would be required if research investments were to deliver greater economic and social value.
She also called for increased investment in well-equipped laboratories, technological research and collaboration involving government, research councils, regional development agencies and industry.
The transition from analysing microorganisms to developing nanotechnology-based coatings represents a central outcome of a career devoted to translating scientific research into practical solutions.
‘Our research has yielded tangible outcomes which can solve current problems in the industry, and also meet economic and market demand,’ Obidi said.
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L-R: Sunday John Ntekim, acting Church Secretary, Deeper Christian Life Ministry; John Akinwande, Lagos Moderator, Deeper Life Bible Church; Steve Obidi (husband), and Olayide Folashade Obidi, a professor of Microbiology, during the 20th inaugural lecture of the 2025/2026 Academic Session of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), delivered by Professor Obidi.