A Nigerian author, Mr Victor Oritsetimeyin, says over dependence on science books written by foreign authors is detrimental to the development of the sciences in Nigeria.
Oritsetimeyin made the assertion on Monday at the unveiling of his two books – Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices Volume I and Metalwork for Colleges and Vocational Institutions in Nigeria.
The event was held at Warri, Delta State.
The author said that foreign science books lacked local content, urging Nigerians to embrace science books written by indigenous authors.
Oritsetimeyin, also an oil and gas professional, said that the desire to boost knowledge in science and technology in Nigeria motivated him to write the books.
He expressed hoped that knowledge from the books would complement government’s efforts in promoting local content and re-engineering technical education.
“I decided to write these books to reduce overdependence on foreign books which lack local content.
“The books will contribute significantly to learning in science – oriented subjects.
“The books have been approved by the Delta State Ministry of Education (Technical) for use in vocational institutions/technical colleges and polytechnics in the state,” he said.
Oritsetimeyin said that he had started working on the Volume 2 of Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices.
He hoped to present it to the public soon.
In his remarks, Chief Benjamin Esi, the Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Warri Branch, said that the books would help to improve technical knowledge in Nigeria.
“The author has done well by putting his knowledge and experiences into concrete form as a book for the present and future generations.
“I believe that students and other members of the public will benefit immensely from the contents of these books,” Esi said.
Prof. Alfred Edema, while unveiling the books, praised the author for deep insight and wisdom.
Edema, a lecturer at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta, said that the books would be of immense benefits to everyone.
“The books are not only for engineers or science students. Anyone that reads these books will gain immensely from the contents.
“The books are great contributions to knowledge, they have our local content.
“They are products from an experienced engineer with a wide range of field experiences over the decades,” Edema said.
Mr Tony Misan, who reviewed Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices Volume 1, said that the book would benefit both graduates and undergraduates of mechanical engineering.
Misan, a mechanical engineer with Chevron Nigeria Ltd., added that the book would be of great benefits to mechanical technicians and craftsmen as well as non-engineers in associated fields.
“The book is well structured, written in simple and lucid language with examples and illustrations from the oil and gas industry,” Misan said.
Similarly, Mr Edward Bright, Head of Department, Civil Engineering, FUPRE, who reviewed the second book, said that metalwork played crucial roles in the economy.
“Metalworking skills are essential for manufacturing, construction and transportation as well as technology development.
“ It remains the backbone of industrialisation.
“Metalwork continues to shape economies and drive industrial progress, making it a vital field of study for future technological advancements; hence, the need for the textbook,” Bright said.
Chief Tony Onuwaje and Chief Samuel Koko, both represented the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse 111, at the event.