PTDF Partners with Universities On Renewable Energy Research

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund, PTDF, says it has partnered with some Nigerian universities on research into alternative sources of energy called renewable energy.

The PTDF’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Bello Aliyu Gusau disclosed this at a workshop on Wednesday held at the University of Benin.

The workshop titled: “Agro Waste to Energy: Biodiesel Bedrock of Energy Sufficiency in Nigeria” was organised by PDTF Professionals’ Chair.

Gusau was represented by the Deputy General Manager, Strategic Planning and Documentation, Mr. Olayinka Agboola,

He said the workshop was to expand the frontier of knowledge based on findings of research work on alternative energy sources.

“We have invested funds in this research work to see how we can make our local materials in renewable energy,” he said.

According to him, the ‘effort became necessary’ due to the “complexity of the energy problem in Nigeria,” which requires alternative sources.

The D-G pointed out that the fossil fuel used as a source of power by Nigerians is becoming expensive to procure, adding that time has come to ”harness solar, wind, and geothermal as energy sources”

In her welcome address, Vice-Chancellor, University of Benin, Prof. Lilian Salami commended PTDF for assisting the universities with research funds.

Salami, who was represented by her Deputy Vice Chancellor Ekhewan Campus, Prof. Buniyamin Ayinde said that the partnership would move the society forward.

A scholar, Prof. Ikuonase Emovon of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta, said Nigeria is endowed with renewable energy resources capable of easing the power generation problems

Also, Prof. Kessington Obahiagbon, the PTDF Chairholder, said biomass fuel is becoming a viable alternative for fossil fuels due to the rising demand for clean energy, diminishing fuel stocks and lowering reliance on crude oil.

NAN/Shakirat Sadiq