By DAYO ADESULU
Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has strengthened its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading innovation-driven tertiary institutions after its PlastoGas Hub project received international recognition from the French Embassy and secured a fresh National Research Fund (NRF) grant from TETFund.
The twin achievements mark another milestone for the College’s efforts to develop sustainable solutions to plastic pollution while promoting clean energy, environmental conservation and technology-driven economic growth.
The recognition came during the French Embassy Fund (FEF) Project Closure Ceremony held in Abuja on June 30, where beneficiary institutions showcased the impact of projects supported under the French Embassy Fund.
YABATECH Showcases Innovative Plastic Recycling Technology
Representing the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. Engr. Ismaila Badmus, led the institution’s delegation to the event. The PlastoGas Hub team was headed by Project Team Lead, Dr. Lauretta Nwanneka Ofodile, alongside Dr. Franca Unekwu Agamah.
During the ceremony, the College showcased its flagship initiative titled “Smart Plastic Collection, Recycling, Education and Training for Sustainable Energy Solutions.”
The project focuses on converting plastic waste into useful products and cleaner energy while promoting environmental sustainability through research, innovation, education and skills development.
French Embassy Commends YABATECH PlastoGas Hub
The project attracted praise from both internal and external evaluators, who described it as technically relevant and capable of providing practical solutions to Nigeria’s growing environmental and energy challenges.
Among the innovations displayed were locally produced paving tiles, recycled plastic plates and syngas production technology. Evaluators noted that these products have significant potential for commercialisation and large-scale adoption across the country.
Speaking at the event, the French Attachée for Education in Nigeria, Andriamampianina Pierre, expressed the Embassy’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with YABATECH.
According to him, the PlastoGas Hub represents a promising model for environmental innovation and sustainable development.
The event was attended by the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, officials of the French Embassy Fund, as well as representatives of several Nigerian universities, including Obafemi Awolowo University, the University of Calabar, the University of Delta, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, the University of Lagos and Nile University.
Fresh TETFund Grant Boosts Research
In another major development, the PlastoGas Hub team secured a fresh National Research Fund (NRF) grant from TETFund.
The new funding is expected to support advanced research, technology development and the commercialisation of innovative products emerging from the project.
Researchers described the grant as a strong endorsement of the quality and impact of the College’s research activities.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to developing environmentally sustainable technologies capable of addressing Nigeria’s development challenges while creating new economic opportunities.
College Management Receives Commendation
The research team credited the success of the project to the visionary leadership of Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, and the continued support of the College management in creating an enabling environment for innovation, entrepreneurship and cutting-edge research.
The team also acknowledged the contributions of several researchers and support staff whose dedication helped drive the project’s success.
Next Phase Targets Commercialisation
Looking ahead, the researchers disclosed that the next phase of the PlastoGas Hub project will focus on refining existing prototypes into commercially viable products, expanding technology development and scaling sustainable solutions capable of transforming plastic waste into valuable economic resources.
They added that the PlastoGas Hub demonstrates the power of research, innovation and international collaboration in driving sustainable development while expressing appreciation to the French Embassy for supporting the pioneering initiative.
Why This Matters
Nigeria generates millions of tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which ends up polluting communities, waterways and landfills. Initiatives such as the YABATECH PlastoGas Hub provide practical solutions by converting waste into valuable products and cleaner energy while creating opportunities for research, entrepreneurship and job creation.
With international recognition and renewed funding from TETFund, the project is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s transition toward a cleaner environment and a more sustainable circular economy.
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