YABATECH’s PlastoGas Hub Wins French Recognition, Secures TETFund Grant for Plastic Waste Research
By DAYO ADESULU
LAGOS — Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has recorded another milestone in research and innovation as its PlastoGas Hub project earned international recognition from the French Embassy and secured a fresh National Research Fund (NRF) grant from TETFund to expand research into plastic waste recycling and clean energy solutions.
The recognition was announced during the French Embassy Fund (FEF) Project Closure Ceremony held in Abuja on June 30, where institutions supported under the French Embassy Fund showcased the impact of their projects.
Representing the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. Engr. Ismaila Badmus, led the institution’s delegation, while the PlastoGas Hub team was headed by Project Team Lead, Dr. Lauretta Nwanneka Ofodile, alongside Dr. Franca Unekwu Agamah.
At the event, the institution showcased its flagship project, “Smart Plastic Collection, Recycling, Education and Training for Sustainable Energy Solutions,” an initiative aimed at converting plastic waste into valuable products and cleaner energy while promoting environmental sustainability through education, skills acquisition and innovative recycling technologies.
The project received commendation from both internal and external evaluators for its innovation, technical relevance and potential to address Nigeria’s growing challenges of plastic pollution and energy sustainability. Among the products displayed were locally produced paving tiles, recycled plastic plates and syngas production technology, all considered to have significant commercial and societal value.
Speaking at the ceremony, the French Attachée for Education in Nigeria, Andriamampianina Pierre, reaffirmed the French Embassy’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with YABATECH, describing the PlastoGas Hub as 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 and representatives of several Nigerian universities benefiting from similar research initiatives.
In another major boost for the project, the PlastoGas Hub team secured a fresh research grant under TETFund’s National Research Fund (NRF). The funding is expected to accelerate research, technology development and the commercialisation of products emerging from the initiative.
The researchers described the grant as an endorsement of the quality and relevance of the College’s research efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to developing environmentally sustainable technologies capable of addressing national development challenges. They also credited the achievement to the leadership of the Rector and the support provided by the College management in fostering research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The team acknowledged the contributions of researchers and support staff whose efforts helped drive the success of the project. Looking ahead, they said the next phase would focus on refining existing prototypes into commercially viable products, advancing technology development and scaling sustainable solutions capable of transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.
According to the researchers, the PlastoGas Hub demonstrates the impact of research, innovation and international collaboration in promoting sustainable development, while expressing appreciation to the French Embassy for supporting the pioneering initiative.
