By Ovat Abeng
Engr. Professor Joseph Tagbo Nwabanne of the Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State, on Thursday, 20th November, 2025 delivered the 117th Inaugural Lecture of the University on the topic: “From Waste to Energy: Unlocking Nigeria’s Biomass Potentials.”
The inaugural lecturer, in his opening remarks stated that energy is important for human society having a significant environmental impact which is largely responsible for the global environmental crisis commonly referred to as energy-environment crises.
The scholar informed that Bioenergy is a compelling alternative in the global energy transition which can significantly contribute to meeting future energy demands sustainably. The 117th inaugural lecturer disclosed that Bioenergy comprises energy derived from Bioresources which is simply the transformation of biomass into useful energy forms such as heat, electricity and biofuels.
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Prof. Nwabanne revealed that the conversion of biomass into energy can be achieved through direct combustion, anaerobic digestion or biochemical methods such as fermentation and transesterification. In highlighting the role of Chemical Engineer in bioenergy economy, The former Dean of the Faculty of Engineering posited that Chemical Engineers utilize their expertise to design, optimize and scale up processes for converting biomass and waste materials into biofuels and other forms of renewable energy.
The scholar affirmed that Chemical Engineers serve as key drivers in advancing the transition towards a more sustainable and renewable energy future. The 117th inaugural lecturer narrated his journey in bioenergy research describing it as a very productive venture leading to the production of bioethanol, biodiesel, biogas, sustainable aviation fuel and pyrolysis oil from various biomasses and waste materials.
Prof. Nwabanne suggested that the prospective rivalry for land and raw materials with alternative biomass applications must be meticulously regulated while the yield of food and biomass feed stocks must be enhanced through improved farming methods. The scholar further stated that logistical and infrastructural challenges must be resolved while there is need for additional technological advancements in order to achieve more effective and cleaner conversion of a broader arrays of feedstocks.
Earlier in his remarks while declaring the event open, UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie stated that Inaugural Lectures are core ingredients of the University culture and a platform for Professors to showcase their research studies carried out in their chosen field.
Prof. Anyaehie stated that researchers should think out of the box on how to solve societal problems by translating research to products. The UNIZIK VC while congratulating Prof. Nwabanne promised to enhance inaugural lecture programme in the institution by funding of its activities and encouraging research.
