On this interview, Nigerien scientist within the diaspora and top notch graduate from the College of Ibadan, Yusuf Owolabi, speaks on his life, ardour, profession and prospects for the longer term.
Please can we meet you?
Completely! My title is Yusuf Oluwafemi Owolabi. I’m a biotechnology skilled and microbiologist keen about sustainable improvements, particularly in renewable vitality and public well being.
Kindly inform us extra about your self, household background, and state of origin?
I hail from Nigeria, and I come from a humble and supportive household that has at all times inspired my tutorial and private development. I’m initially from Kwara State.
How was your childhood like?
Rising up in Nigeria was a mixture of challenges and inspiration. My dad and mom emphasised schooling, self-discipline, and religion, which formed me into who I’m immediately. I had a powerful curiosity for science from a younger age, at all times asking “why” and “how.”
Any fond childhood reminiscences?
Sure, I used to be deeply interested by how nature labored, how issues grew, and the way substances modified. Wanting again, it was the spark that ignited my ardour for microbiology and analysis. That childhood reminiscence turned the muse for a lifelong goal.
Inform us about your tutorial background and information.
I obtained my B.Sc. in Microbiology with First Class Honours from the College of Ibadan. Later, I earned my M.Sc. in Biotechnology from the College of Chester, UK. I’ve additionally acquired a number of awards for educational excellence and management all through my schooling.
What’s your birthday and yr?
I used to be born on twenty eighth August 1996.
The place do you reside now and what do you do?
I at the moment reside in Toronto, Canada and have interaction in scientific assessment centered on biotechnology and renewable vitality.
You made an enormous breakthrough in your current assessment on biobutanol by turning agricultural wastes into renewable vitality sources. What impressed such a courageous and groundbreaking milestone?
The need to search out sustainable options for vitality wants and cut back the environmental burden impressed me. Seeing how agricultural waste is commonly uncared for, I envisioned the way it could possibly be repurposed into one thing invaluable—biobutanol. This breakthrough aligns with world efforts towards inexperienced options.
Had you accomplished any analysis earlier than this one?
Sure, I’ve been concerned in a number of analysis works, together with research on Lactic Acid Micro organism in fermented milk, estrogenic compound dangers, and flare fuel utilization for vitality era.
How a lot of an affect do you assume your assessment would have on the worldwide effort to cast off fossil fuels?
I consider it gives a strong basis for policymakers and industries to discover different, eco-friendly gas sources. Agricultural waste-to-energy is cost-effective, reduces carbon footprints, and empowers communities, particularly in growing areas.
Do you assume that the worldwide goal of decreasing emissions by 43% by 2030 is achievable?
It’s formidable however doable—with robust political will, ample funding, and world collaboration amongst scientists, stakeholders, and governments. The tempo of present analysis and innovation is promising if adequately supported.
How proud does your publication make you as a Nigerian?
Extraordinarily proud. It’s a testomony to the potential that Nigerian youth possess. My publication proves that excellence is aware of no boundaries, and Nigerians could be on the forefront of world innovation.
Do you assume that with extra world funding, extra breakthroughs will probably be achieved within the race for renewable vitality?
Completely. Funding unlocks the sources, instruments, and collaborations wanted to scale up analysis and translate it into real-world options.
You might be an instance of hundreds of younger and good minds again residence in Nigeria. What do you have got entry to that these at residence are missing?
Entry to superior analysis instruments and collaborative worldwide environments. However I consider with the correct assist, younger minds in Nigeria can obtain simply as a lot, if no more.
What different researches or evaluations are you engaged on or planning to embark on quickly?
I’m planning a assessment on the appliance of genetically modified microorganisms in enhancing biobutanol and bioethanol manufacturing, specializing in their position in decreasing pretreatment prices and enhancing substrate utilization. These strains of analysis mix my ardour for microbiology and sustainable vitality, aiming to contribute sensible options to the worldwide vitality disaster.
What has made the distinction for you in life?
Religion in Allah, relentless curiosity, mentorship, and resilience. These have been my anchors.
I can see you’re a passionate Liverpool fan. In case you’re not apprehensive about pre-treatment of microorganisms, how do you chill out or spend your leisure?
[Laughs] Sure, I’m a die-hard Liverpool fan! Throughout leisure, I take pleasure in watching soccer, studying inspirational books, and typically exploring nature or engaged on private initiatives.
Are you married?
Not in the mean time.
What’s your largest ambition and concern in life?
My ambition is to guide world efforts in biotech analysis for sustainable dwelling. My concern isn’t utilizing my God-given potential to its fullest.
Do you have got mentors? If sure, who’re they?
Sure, I’ve been lucky to have a number of tutorial {and professional} mentors—lecturers from the College of Ibadan, supervisors from the UK, and business leaders who’ve guided me all through my profession.
Analysis of world requirements prices rather a lot. How did you elevate cash for yours?
I used to be lucky to obtain the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship from the College of Chester, which considerably supported my postgraduate research in Biotechnology. That scholarship not solely assisted me financially but additionally gave me entry to a world-class analysis atmosphere.
What’s your name for a world motion within the race for renewable vitality?
It’s time to take daring, unified motion. We should prioritize sustainability, put money into inexperienced analysis, and empower communities to undertake renewable options. The clock is ticking
Do you assume Africa is bearing the most important brunt as regards fossil gas emissions?
Sure. Regardless of contributing the least to world emissions, Africa suffers essentially the most from the implications—droughts, floods, and meals insecurity. It’s a grave injustice.
At COP 29, Africa described the local weather finance donations as “disgrace.” What can the continent do to struggle its personal battle?
Africa should put money into its personal scientists, fund native analysis, and kind regional collaborations. We have to cease ready for the world and begin main with what we’ve got.
