Across Nigeria, conversations around energy access and waste management often focus on challenges. Yet, at the University of Ilorin, a researcher is demonstrating how one problem can become part of the solution.
Mrs Peace Chinyere Nnabugwu, a graduate of the University's Department of Physics who recently completed her doctoral studies, has successfully developed biogas from animal waste, transforming discarded materials into a potential source of power for homes and industries.
The project centres on a simple but impactful idea: converting waste into value. Rather than allowing animal and human waste to become environmental burdens, Nnabugwu believes they can be harnessed to produce clean energy capable of supporting economic activity and improving livelihoods.
For the researcher, the motivation behind the work stemmed from the growing global and local drive to turn waste into wealth. That pursuit led her to explore practical ways of extracting energy from materials often regarded as useless.
To produce the biogas, animal waste was collected from Oke-Ose in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State. The material was then subjected to a five-day treatment process using an integrated thermodynamic application designed to maximise gas production.
According to Nnabugwu, the resulting gas can be used for power generation in both domestic and industrial settings. Beyond providing an alternative energy source, the innovation also offers environmental benefits by reducing waste and promoting cleaner methods of energy production.
The economic potential of the project is equally significant. Nnabugwu said the technology could contribute to job creation while supporting efforts aimed at expanding access to sustainable energy solutions. She also believes the innovation can play a role in addressing energy poverty, a challenge that continues to affect many communities.
The cost of preparing the biogas system, she explained, ranges between ₦500,000 and ₦750,000.
The invention was formally demonstrated on May 25, 2026, at the Department of Physics, University of Ilorin. Present at the event were the Director of the Centre for Laboratory to Product (LABTOP), Prof. Muhammad Jimoh Saka, and the Head of the Department of Physics, Dr Taofeeq Olanrewaju Lawal, who witnessed the practical demonstration of the technology.
Nnabugwu also acknowledged the support she received throughout the research process, expressing gratitude to the Department of Physics and particularly to her supervisors, Prof. C. O. Akoshile and Prof. A. B. Alabi.
Also in attendance were Mrs Sade Shittu, Chief Technologist in the Department of Physics, and Dr Omolayo Omorinoye, Deputy Director at LABTOP.
As she reflected on the journey behind the innovation, Nnabugwu encouraged young scientists and researchers to channel their creativity and expertise toward solving real-world problems. Her message was clear: research achieves its greatest impact when it delivers practical solutions that improve lives.
The development adds to a growing body of homegrown innovations showing how Nigerian researchers are creating locally relevant answers to national challenges. In this case, what begins as animal waste could ultimately become a valuable source of clean energy, employment opportunities and environmental sustainability.
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