By Victoria Onyisi
In a strategic move to bolster its renewable energy capabilities, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has commenced a 5-day training to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 staff drawn from the Headquarters and Institutes for the design and operation of biogas and biomethanol plants holding at the headquarters, Abuja.
The intensive onsite training which will end on Friday, July 26, 2024, is being conducted in collaboration with SRH Berlin, Germany, a reputable organization known for the design and development of commercial-scale biogas and biomethanol plants with the strategic aim of accelerating the use of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to ease the country’s transportation hiccups.
In addition to the onsite training, NASENI and SRH Berlin are offering two online training courses on the design of medium-scale biogas and biomethanol plants. Trainees will be trained on several aspects of the design process, including process control, CAD/CAM, material science for biogas production, methanol synthesis, hydrogen production, and safety principles.
The Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by the Deputy Director, Nano Science Department, Science Infrastructure, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso, said, “this training is a very important step in equipping our staff with the necessary knowledge and expertise to design and manage biogas and biomethanol plants effectively.
“The participants were carefully selected to represent different NASENI institutes, ensuring a comprehensive transfer of knowledge across the organization.”
She further revealed that the model design for the biogas plant had already been developed and the training would focus on the practical application and hands-on learning.
She urged the 20 participants to approach the training with utmost seriousness and importance, emphasizing the transformative impact it would have on NASENI’s renewable energy initiatives.
The Deputy Director Information at NASENI, Mr. Chima Akwaja, in a statement, said the training is being facilitated by a team of 7 experts from SRH Berlin, Germany, namely: Ronald Schnell, Gnana Swaroop, Osvaldo Romero, Edward Antwi, Nomu I, Uduak Bassey, and Michael Hartman.
The training will also empower the staff with cutting-edge skills and knowledge.
Engr. Anas Yadiz, SA to the EVC on Science and Engineering Commercialisation, who is the coordinator of the training, said NASENI was poised to drive the adoption of biogas and biomethanol technologies, contributing to Nigeria’s broader renewable energy goals and paving the way for a more sustainable future.
He said this collaborative effort showcases the Agency’s commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing the skills of its workforce, and leading the charge towards a greener, more energy-efficient Nigeria.
