By Abdulfatah Babatunde
Lagos, May 10, ’26 (TNZ) Dr Ibraeem Adedotun Abdul, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YabaTech), says his administration is committed to waste-to-energy research through the “Plastogas Project”, among numerous project initiatives.
Abdul gave this indication in a special interview with TheNewsZenith, recently in his office.
According to him, the Plastogas project represents a remarkable breakthrough in sustainable waste management and renewable energy innovation in Nigeria.
The project, he said, aims at addressing environmental challenges and creating economic opportunities, adding that the project aligns with the ‘ERECT Agenda’, the innovative strategic development policy framework of his administration.
Our media crew reports that the project is based at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos.
This pioneering initiative seeks to convert waste plastics into usable cooking gas through an advanced thermal conversion process.
It has garnered significant attention both nationally and internationally, positioning YabaTech as a leading institution in waste-to-energy research within the African continent.
The Rector hinted that the plastogas hub launched early this year, “stands as a testament to the transformative power of applied research in addressing some of Nigeria’s most pressing environmental challenges.
“With Nigeria generating between 13,000 and 15,000 tonnes of waste daily, the need for innovative solutions to manage plastic pollution has never been more urgent.
“It offers a viable alternative to conventional waste disposal methods while simultaneously contributing to the nation’s transition towards cleaner energy sources,’’ TheNewsZenith quotes him as saying.
Origin and Funding Support
According to the Rector, the project emerged from YabaTech’s commitment to research excellence and environmental sustainability.
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“The French Embassy in Nigeria made the initiative possible through a substantial grant. The embassy recognised the project’s potential to address the growing crisis of plastic waste in Nigerian communities.
“In November 2024, the French Embassy announced its fifth grant call, and YabaTech’s Plastogas Hub was selected as one of five institutional laureates across the country.
The funding amounted to approximately N100 million (equivalent to about £50,000), representing one of the most significant investments in sustainable research by the French diplomatic mission in Nigeria.
The French Embassy, through its Project Coordinator of the French Embassy Fund, Eno-Obong Sampson, described the initiative as “a significant milestone in the fight against plastic pollution”.
“It is a model for community-driven waste management, clean energy production, and skills development.
“This financial support enabled the institution to procure necessary equipment, establish the research facility, and engage skilled personnel to bring the project to fruition.
Project Objectives
The Plastogas Project was designed with multiple objectives that extend beyond mere waste conversion.
Primarily, the initiative aims to transform plastic waste into usable cooking gas. Invariably, this will help to reduce dependence on traditional fuels such as charcoal and firewood.
A secondary objective involves upcycling the residue from gas production into valuable household and construction items, including paving stones, plates, cups, and furniture.
The project also seeks to create a sustainable income stream for communities through its smart collection system, for which individuals are rewarded for depositing their plastic waste at designated collection points.
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Also, the plastogas hub serves as a centre for training and research, providing opportunities for students, artisans, and members of the public to acquire practical skills in plastic upcycling and gas production.
Abdul emphasised that the project aligns with YABATECH’s institutional vision of turning “waste to wealth.” This demonstrates how academic research can translate into tangible societal benefits.
Technical Process and Innovation
The technical process underlying the project involves advanced thermal conversion technology.
It breaks down plastic polymers into combustible gases through controlled heating in an oxygen-deficient environment.
This process, often referred to as pyrolysis or gasification, effectively transforms solid plastic waste into a gaseous fuel. This gaseous fuel can be captured, purified, and utilised for cooking purposes.
The technology represents a sophisticated approach to waste management that avoids the harmful emissions associated with incineration.
It extracts maximum value from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or water bodies.
The system is designed to handle various types of plastic waste. These include polyethene and polypropylene, which constitute the majority of household plastic refuse.
YabaTech’s engineering team, led by experienced researchers, developed the facility to operate efficiently while maintaining stringent safety standards.
The innovation places the College among very few institutions globally that have developed operational plastic-to-gas technology, earning the institution significant recognition in academic and environmental circles. (TNZ)
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