By Dorcas Achi
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, has congratulated Prof. Kingsley Okechukwu Ikebudu on his lecture at the university’s 24th inaugural professorial lecture series, to be held at the University today,July 24, 2025.
The lecture titled, “Coal Technology: Nigeria’s Dilemma,” dissected various processes for utilizing and improving coal efficiency in Nigeria. It emphasized reducing environmental impact through “clean coal” technologies, focusing on minimizing emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and exploring alternative uses beyond traditional combustion.
The Presenter, a renowned researcher of Engineering, noted that Nigeria’s dilemma with coal technology is complex and multifaceted, with significant technical, political, and economic challenges hindering its full potential. However, he inferred that with proper investment, policy support, and technological innovation, coal can become a critical component of Nigeria’s energy landscape.
By addressing the barriers to coal development and adopting cleaner technologies, he maintained, Nigeria can harness its vast coal resources to improve energy security, drive economic growth, and contribute to the global transition to sustainable energy systems.
This lecture has explored the technical challenges and opportunities, as well as the political, economic, and environmental implications of coal utilization in Nigeria. Moving forward, it is imperative that both the government and private sector take proactive steps to ensure that coal technology plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s energy future.
