The Impact of 3D Printing Technology to the Nigerian Manufacturing GDP

Abstract

3D printing can spur manufacturing rebirth in Nigeria and the World in general. There are many areas where 3D printing is creating significant change, particularly in designing and prototyping of new products, in the arts, and in visualizing abstract concepts. This is a step change from conventional manufacturing processes to rapid prototyping and layer manufacturing. This report has defined rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing and the current technologies available to fabricate 3D components. In addition to this, it provides a brief overview of the current contributions of the Edo University Iyamho (EUI) in collaboration with the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, to sustain manufacturing research initiatives towards the development of locally fabricated 3D printer and the possible future Additive Manufacturing in Nigeria. It is anticipated that this work will benefit the Nigerian academic, research institutes, industries, thus, enhance the GDP contribution of the manufacturing sector in Nigeria.