UNILORIN Professor Develops Patented Technology for Producing Smokeless Biofuel

A professor at the University of Ilorin, Jamiu Kolawole Odusote, has developed a locally fabricated technology capable of converting agricultural and forestry waste into high-energy biofuel with reduced smoke emissions.

Odusote, who was named the University's Innovator of the Year 2026, disclosed this in an interview with the UNILORIN Bulletin, where he discussed his patented invention and its potential contribution to sustainable energy production.

The invention, patented on February 16, 2025, is a fixed-bed torrefaction chamber designed to process materials such as agricultural residues, fallen leaves and sawdust into biochar. The resulting material can be used to produce smokeless briquettes for domestic and commercial energy needs.

According to the professor, who also serves as the Director of the Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy, the technology was developed in response to challenges associated with conventional fuel sources.

He identified the increasing cost of fossil fuels, excessive dependence on firewood, deforestation and the health risks linked to smoke from traditional biomass burning as some of the problems the innovation seeks to address.

He also explained that the high cost and limited availability of imported pyrolysis equipment informed the decision to develop a locally fabricated alternative.

Odusote noted that the technology could help reduce dependence on conventional wood fuels, ease pressure on forest resources and minimise exposure to harmful smoke particles.

Beyond its environmental benefits, he said the innovation could support sustainable waste management, strengthen Nigeria's energy security and create additional sources of income for rural communities if widely adopted.

The professor further explained that the research aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), Goal 13 (Climate Action) and Goal 15 (Life on Land).

The development highlights the potential of locally driven research and technological innovation in addressing energy and environmental challenges in Nigeria.

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