Federal Government Agencies Inspect Progress of the FUTA Bioethanol Plant Project
On May 20, 2024, a joint monitoring group from NASENI and PICTT visited the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) to inspect the progress of its Bioethanol Plant project
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
A joint monitoring group from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technological Transfer (PICTT) visited the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) to inspect the progress of its Bioethanol Plant project. This initiative, led by Professor Olayinka Awopetu of the Industrial and Production Engineering Department, aims to enhance Nigeria's bioethanol production capabilities.
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The project, funded under the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer/Information Exchange between Nigeria and the Czech Republic, seeks to reduce Nigeria's reliance on imported ethanol used in various industrial applications, including fuel blending. Professor Awopetu highlighted that the initiative aligns with Nigeria's 2007 national biofuel policy, which targets producing 2 billion liters of bioethanol by 2020.
FUTA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, welcomed the delegation, emphasizing FUTA's commitment to transparency and excellence in research. She praised the research team for effectively utilizing grants, such as the TETFUND National Research Fund (NRF), to achieve significant advancements. Professor Oladiji noted that the Bioethanol Plant would boost Nigeria's GDP, create job opportunities, address security challenges, and positively impact climate change.
The visit included a tour of the facility and meetings with private project partners, DEBOLA Nigeria Limited and FEMBO Nigeria Limited, in Akure. PICTT Project Officer, Mr. Tobo Adjekughele, lauded FUTA's progress and assured comprehensive reporting on the project’s advancements. He was accompanied by Mr. Shahid Sharif.
The project's research and development efforts aim to yield innovative solutions and high-tech products, with significant improvements in processes and services. The collaborative efforts between FUTA academics and industry partners, including Engr. Tunde Alabi of Enpro Consultants and Mr. Gboyega Faloye of FEMBO Nigeria Limited, are expected to result in commercialized outcomes that address current challenges.
Commencing in January 2024, the multimillion-naira project is slated for completion by December 2026. The research team, led by Professor Olayinka O. Awopetu, includes Prof. Olurotimi A. Dahunsi, Prof. Michael K. Adeyeri, Dr. Oluwole T. Ojo, Dr. Rilwan K. Apalowo, and Mr. Saheed O. Lawal.
This initiative highlights FUTA's dedication to advancing technological innovation and contributing to Nigeria's economic and environmental sustainability.
