NASENI Unveils Breakthrough In Biodegradable Plastics From Pineapple Leaves
Rashidat O. Okunlade Writes, Lagos
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Nigeria’s economic diversification through the commercialisation of scientific research, unveiling a major breakthrough in the development of sustainable materials derived from agricultural waste.
This commitment was underscored during the Agency’s hybrid scientific engagement seminar in Abuja on Tuesday, where researchers showcased a pioneering innovation: the extraction of nanocellulose fibre from pineapple leaves. The discovery is being hailed as a potential game-changer for Nigeria’s industrial sector, particularly in the production of biodegradable plastics and eco-friendly packaging.
Declaring the seminar open, the Director of the Nano Science Department, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso, described the initiative as a strategic platform to foster collaboration and translate laboratory discoveries into tangible industrial solutions. She urged researchers to leverage the forum for cross-pollination of ideas, emphasising that the Agency is focused on achieving impactful results that align with Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda.
“This seminar provides an opportunity for colleagues to learn from one another and generate ideas that will support innovation and national economic growth,” Dr. Ezeanyanaso stated. “There is no seniority here; what matters is knowledge sharing.”
The highlight of the event was a technical presentation by Engr. Dr. Samuel Wadzani Gadzama, Chief Engineer at the Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Enugu. Dr. Gadzama detailed a decade of rigorous research, revealing how his team successfully isolated nanocellulose fibres from pineapple leaves through extensive laboratory testing in Nigeria and internationally.
He noted that the resulting product holds significant potential as a raw material for manufacturing biodegradable plastics, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based polymers and contributing to a circular economy.
In his vote of thanks, Deputy Director of the Research Laboratory Department, Dr. Hassan Bakare, lauded the Agency’s leadership for fostering a culture of scientific excellence. He proposed the creation of a joint seminar platform to bridge the gap between the Science and Engineering Directorates, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate industrial growth and technological self-sufficiency.
The event was attended by senior management and staff, including the Overseeing Officer of the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro, and Deputy Director of Nanoscience, Mr. Kayode Oladipo. The Agency’s Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, was commended for his continued support of research and development initiatives aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s science infrastructure.
