The Nigerian government has intensified effort for methanol production as an alternative source of energy in the country.
The government through the Federal Ministry of Science, technology and innovation engaged Solidworks an advanced software tool for the implementation of methanol fuel production in Nigeria.
SolidWorks is a computer-aided design software that enables engineers to create 3D models of products, parts and coupling of machines.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science technology and innovation, Mrs Monilola Udoh while declaring open the workshop on Implementation of the National Policy on Methanol Fuel Production Technology Strategy in Abuja Nigeria’s capital, said methanol fuel production was a viable option with the potential of benefitting the economy and environment in several ways.
“Methanol is a clean-burning fuel that is gaining attraction globally as a viable alternative to fossil fuels. With Nigeria being one of the largest oil producing nations and having the largest natural gas reserve in Africa, it is important that we explore alternative energy resources, and methanol fuel production is an excellent option.“
Mrs Udoh noted that the ministry is deploying the advanced Software because the strategy for methanol fuel production in Nigeria requires it’s use.
“It is important for us to know the benefits and advantages of using this software to drive projects and programmes, in this case, the implementation of a technology strategy for methanol fuel production in Nigeria. One of the most significant advantages is its ability to stimulate the behaviour of products under real-world conditions. This is particularly important in the implementation of this project because it will aid our engineers to test and refine designs before the actual production begins. They would be able to stimulate the behaviour of chemical reactions in the production process. ensuring that the process is efficient and safe.” Mrs Udoh said.
The Director of the Environmental Sciences and Technology Department of the ministry, Dr Peter Ekweozoh said this policy that the Ministry adopted will impact on seven sectors of the economy and accelerate the implementation of the national department contribution under the Paris Agreement.
“The seven sectors have been placed by the Federal Government to be committed to cutting down global warming by 47 per cent. These sectors are agriculture, energy, industry, water resources, waste sector, transportation, oil and gas.’’
Ekweozoh said for Nigeria to implement all the global conventions under the Paris Agreement, the Ministry had the responsibility to come up with solutions, innovations, technologies and scientific tools adding that the national department contribution that had been deposited with the Paris agreement was very crucial.
The Director added that this policy will add value to Nigeria’s natural raw materials stating that although the raw materials are not renewable energy but they can afford the nation’s opportunity to transition into a greener economy.
“So, we came with a technology that would not only add value but create jobs, production and manufacturing industries, especially in the chemicals industry value chain.”
PIAK
