From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The PTDF-supported research conducted at Ahmadu Bello University on zeolite catalysts for the petroleum industry resulted in a patented indigenous technology with strong commercial potential, according to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed.
Prof. Ahmed explained that if the innovation is successfully deployed, it could significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported catalysts.
He added that it could also save over US$300 million annually in foreign currency, boost local manufacturing, and promote Nigeria’s technological independence.
The Vice-Chancellor made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the PTDF Executive Secretary, Prof. Shuaibu Shehu Aliyu, in Abuja.
The purpose of the visit was to congratulate Prof. Aliyu, a prominent member of the Ahmadu Bello University community, on his appointment as head of the petroleum agency.
Prof. Ahmed emphasized that this innovation demonstrates the importance of sustained investment in research.
“Having supported the development of this technology, PTDF is uniquely positioned to help facilitate its commercialization through strategic partnerships, pilot projects, and industry engagement,” he said.
He noted that over the years, PTDF has been one of ABU’s most valuable strategic partners, helping to strengthen the university’s capacity to produce knowledge that addresses national challenges.
According to him, ABU is committed to working with PTDF to develop a practical roadmap that will turn this innovation into a nationally recognized success story.
“We stand ready to contribute our researchers, laboratories, and technical expertise to achieve this goal,” he added.
ABU is also looking forward to expanding collaboration in postgraduate training, advanced research, energy transition, local content development, digital innovation, and capacity building.
Congratulating the new PTDF Executive Secretary, the Vice-Chancellor said his appointment is a ‘source of pride’ for the university.
Ahmed described him as a distinguished academic with a strong commitment to excellence, research, and national development.
He expressed confidence that the partnership between PTDF and ABU would grow even stronger.
In response, PTDF Executive Secretary, Prof. Shuaibu Shehu Aliyu, praised the Vice-Chancellor for his simplicity and accommodating nature.
Prof. Aliyu mentioned that with the recent upgrade of the PTDF College of Petroleum and Energy Studies into the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology, PTDF aims to strengthen its partnership with ABU.
The upgraded college now trains postgraduate students in specialized earth and applied sciences.
He also said ABU students will have access to the 29 laboratories of the University of Geosciences and will benefit from manpower support from the northern premier institution to help build the new university.
The Executive Secretary announced PTDF’s plan to domesticate its training programs to address skill gaps for the benefit of the oil and gas industry.
Prof. Aliyu pointed out that Dangote Group has over 30,000 expatriates due to a skills gap in Nigeria.
He described ABU as a center of academic excellence with top talent and urged the Vice-Chancellor to provide all necessary support to ensure success.
