By Rahmatullah Mahmud
A research team from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Oyo State, has unveiled innovative findings in aquaculture wastewater treatment, thanks to full funding from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). The project, led by Dr. Abbas Olanrewaju Alade from the Department of Chemical Engineering, promises to revolutionize wastewater management in the aquaculture industry while promoting sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact.
Speaking at the NASENI headquarters, Dr. Alade highlighted the pressing need for effective wastewater treatment in the growing aquaculture sector, which consumes vast amounts of water and generates environmentally hazardous waste. The team’s research focused on finding a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to expensive imported chemical coagulants traditionally used in wastewater treatment.
Their solution? Utilizing waste plantain and banana stems—materials commonly discarded after harvest—as natural coagulants. Dr. Alade explained that these stems, rich in beneficial juices, can effectively coagulate harmful properties in wastewater, making the treated water safe for reuse in aquaculture. This approach not only reduces water consumption by up to 40% but also transforms agricultural waste into a valuable resource, fostering a “waste to wealth” model that supports job creation and boosts farmers’ incomes.
Dr. Alade praised NASENI’s role in facilitating the research and called for further collaboration to commercialize the findings. He emphasized the need for technological upgrades, production expansion, and procurement support to bring the project to fruition. With NASENI’s continued backing, he expressed confidence that within six months, Nigeria could see the establishment of factories producing these innovative products, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s quest for sustainable development.