News Highlights:
- The Nanoscience breakthrough shows the extraction of nanocellulose fibre from pineapple leaves, offering potential for biodegradable plastics and sustainable manufacturing.
- The seminar emphasized knowledge-sharing across NASENI, with calls to intensify research and foster interdisciplinary innovation.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has spotlighted a major scientific breakthrough in nanoscience while urging its researchers to intensify efforts that will drive innovation and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial growth.
A highlight of the “NASENI Hybrid Scientific Engagement Programme: Science Perspective” seminar, held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, was the presentation by Engr. Dr. Samuel Wadzani Gadzama, Chief Engineer at the Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Enugu.
He revealed that his team had successfully extracted nanocellulose fibre from pineapple leaves, a discovery with significant industrial potential.
According to Dr. Gadzama, the innovation followed extensive laboratory testing both locally and internationally, culminating in the development of a sustainable material that can be used in producing biodegradable plastics and other eco-friendly applications.
He stressed that the nanocellulose product could support sustainable manufacturing and reduce reliance on non-biodegradable materials.
Opening the seminar, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso, Director of the Nano Science Department, described the programme as a strategic platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration across NASENI.
“This seminar provides an opportunity for colleagues to learn from one another and generate ideas that will support innovation and national economic growth,” she emphasised.
She explained that the initiative expands on the department’s regular seminar series, encouraging broader participation across the NASENI system.
“There is no seniority here; what matters is knowledge sharing,” she added, urging participants to actively engage with the presentations.
Dr. Ezeanyanaso also expressed gratitude to NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, for his continued support, and to Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro, Overseeing Officer of the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, for their contributions to advancing research.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Hassan Bakare, Deputy Director of the Research Laboratory Department, commended the Science Infrastructure Directorate for fostering scientific exchange.
He further advocated the creation of a joint seminar platform that would bring together the Science and Engineering Infrastructure Directorates to accelerate interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthen NASENI’s role in national development.
