The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has emphasised the importance of developing the ethanol industry for the economic diversification of the nation.
Nnaji highlighted that converting cassava to ethanol would reduce reliance on imported cooking fuel, protect the economy from global market fluctuations and promote self-reliance. This was announced during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Montserrado Investment Limited and the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) in Abuja.
The minister explained that the project aims to harness the economic potential of the cassava-to-ethanol industry, providing benefits such as economic growth, import substitution and regional development. He stressed that transitioning to clean cooking fuel by producing ethanol derived from cassava is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy sources. The collaboration between Montserrado Investment Limited and FIIRO will focus on designing, building and operating an ethanol processing plant in line with international best practices for environmental sustainability and efficiency.
The minister commended the Ekiti State governor, Dr. Biodun Oyebanji for leading the transformative project in his state and expressed the belief that the program would facilitate the bio-energy value initiative across the country. He emphasised the importance of working together to achieve shared goals of economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social well-being.
The Ekiti State governor, represented by the Ekiti State Commissioner of Innovation, Science & Digital Economy, highlighted the potential for wealth creation, job generation and improved investment opportunities as a result of the collaboration. Additionally, the permanent secretary of innovation, science, and technology, represented by the director, legal services, expressed the ministry’s readiness to support FIIRO in sustaining the development and progress of the industry.
The director-general of Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa described the collaboration as a significant milestone for fostering sustainable development and industrial growth in the nation. She emphasised FIIRO’s commitment to groundbreaking projects aimed at harnessing agricultural and mineral resources for the socio-economic development of the country.
