Groundbreaking research and development projects funded by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure were presented by researchers from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and the Federal University of Technology.
Projects initiated in April 2023 through a collaborative Memorandum of Understanding between NASENI and three professors from the universities showcased innovative solutions in water treatment, industrial wastewater purification, and agricultural production enhancement.
Professor Abass Alade from LAUTECH introduced a system for treating aquaculture wastewater using a composite of waste banana and plantain stem juice.
FUT’s Associate Professor Jimoh Oladejo Tijani displayed a composite material for purifying industrial wastewater, while LAUTECH’s Sanusi Kolawole presented nano-coating technology for green urea fertilizer production.
NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Halilu, represented by Research Director Samuel Olusunle, expressed gratitude to the professors for effectively utilizing the funds in publishing their research and developing the products.
Professor Abass Alade, on behalf of his colleagues, appreciated the opportunity, stating, “We are grateful for the chance to showcase our work and acknowledge NASENI’s contribution to expanding our knowledge and capabilities.”
Key achievements highlighted include the sustainable agency-academia linkage, facility development through equipment acquisition, and human resource development of participating undergraduates and postgraduates.
They called for NASENI’s continued funding to scale up production and commercialize the products through the collaboration between NASENI, academia, and the private sector.
NASENI Research Director Patrick Okwu urged them to incorporate production costs in future presentations to enhance accessibility for the general public.
NASENI’s Research Director Abdulmalik Onuwe expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with universities and stressed the importance of expanding research deliverables to benefit the manufacturing sector.
Dr. Bakare Oladipo, Deputy Director and Head of the Research Laboratory Development Department at NASENI’s Science Infrastructure Directorate, extended thanks to the EVC/CEO for the collaborative efforts.
He stated, “This exhibition underscores NASENI’s dedication to fostering innovation and partnerships between Nigeria’s top academic institutions and the agency’s research and development initiatives.”