The Vice-Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, has called for stronger partnerships among government, academia and industry to translate scientific research into practical clean energy solutions.
Olarinde, according to a statement made available in Ado Ekiti on Sunday, spoke at the second International Green Hydrogen Summit held at ABUAD.
The VC said the transition to clean energy solutions required sustained investment in research, effective policies, industrial innovation and the development of skilled workers.
“There is need for stronger collaboration among government, academia and industry to translate scientific research into practical clean energy solutions,” she said.
Olarinde urged participants to ensure that the summit produced practical solutions and lasting partnerships capable of advancing Nigeria’s clean energy ambitions.
The Chief Executive Officer of CrossAfrique Hydrogen Limited, Netherlands, Joshua Dauda, corroborated the VC, reiterating the need for collaboration among universities, industries and international partners to develop Nigeria’s clean energy sector.
Dauda said the company was working with industrial partners and the German development agency, GIZ, to establish a Green Energy Hub at ABUAD, beginning with a solar photovoltaic system to power the university and a hydrogen classroom for research and demonstration.
He said, “The proposed project, Green Energy Hub at ABUAD, is a potential first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria. It will support training for researchers, lecturers and other professionals in hydrogen technology.
“The project is designed to draw on lessons and expertise acquired through international collaboration and adapt them to Nigeria’s energy needs”.
Dauda said the initiative would also promote curriculum development and knowledge-sharing, enabling other universities and institutions to replicate the model.
He said, “A subsequent phase can explore green ammonia production for fertiliser, potentially expanding the project’s contribution to agriculture and industrial development”.
Credit: Punchng
