A Professor of Materials Chemistry at Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Prof. Joshua Lelesi Konne, has unveiled cutting-edge nanotechnology innovations that could revolutionise crude oil spill remediation, clean energy production and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
Delivering the University’s 135th Inaugural Lecture, titled “Naked Coated Nanoseeds: Paradoxical Pathways to Innovations in Catalysis, Energy and Environment,” Prof. Konne presented years of interdisciplinary research focused on developing advanced nanomaterials to address critical environmental and industrial challenges.
Among his major breakthroughs is the development of Starch-Stabilised Magnetic Nanoparticles (SSMNPs) from cassava wastewater, which proved more effective than existing technologies in removing contaminants from crude oil. He also revealed that his research team successfully applied Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs) and SSMNPs as Fenton-like catalysts for crude oil spill remediation, achieving better results than the conventional Fenton oxidation process.
The research also produced innovations in biodiesel production using Kono Boue clay, water purification through activated carbon composites, enhanced crude oil degradation and recovery, as well as the development of advanced metal oxide nanoparticles and industrial materials from agricultural waste, including plantain peel ash.
Despite these achievements, Prof. Konne lamented the absence of a standard nanotechnology laboratory in Rivers State and the South-South region, noting that students and researchers spend millions of naira annually on specialised laboratory analyses outside the state. He called for the establishment of a Central Research Laboratory and a Centre for Nanotechnology at the University, increased investment in local mineral resources and greater support for interdisciplinary scientific research. He also urged HYPREP to establish soil treatment facilities for heavily oil-polluted communities and called on the Rivers State Government to strengthen industrial development through research-driven innovation.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Blessing Jaja, commended the inaugural lecturer for translating complex scientific concepts into practical solutions. He disclosed that the University Management is already working towards establishing a Central Research Laboratory, with Prof. Konne expected to play a key role in the initiative.
The lecture reaffirmed the vital role of scientific research in tackling environmental degradation, driving industrial development and advancing sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria.
