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

Federal Government Agencies Inspect Progress of the FUTA Bioethanol Plant Project

 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.

RECOMMENDED: FUTA Radio Board Receives Assurances from Vice Chancellor for Enhanced Support

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.

READ ALSO: Federal College of Education (Technical), Potiskum Hosts Yobe Youth Forum and Scout Parade

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.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria Partners with Anatomia Limited to Launch BRAIN Project

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.

SEE MORE: Experts Advocate Full Digitalization of Operations in Higher Education Institutions at the FUTA International Workshop

YOU MIGHT LIKE: What You Need to Know About UNIABUJA Ongoing 2024/2025 Admission Process

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.

READ ALSO: FUTA Biochemistry PhD Student Secures Prestigious Fulbright Foreign Scholarship for U.S. Research