UNILAG leads AI-driven waste management project

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has partnered the state ‘s Waste Management Authority ( LAWMA) on an inclusive research project to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques for extracting carbon from landfill waste for renewable energy.

The project, funded by the African Inclusive Digital Transformation Seed Grant, is aimed at revolutionising waste management across Africa by harnessing digital innovation.

The research is concentrated on applying AI techniques to separate carbon waste from landfill waste for renewable energy in order to improve the economy of Nigeria and other African countries.

As part of the initiative, a stakeholder engagement event was held at Olusosun Landfill, Ojota, coinciding with the World Recycling Day to engage stakeholders.
The university’s Green Hub, in collaboration with the project, organised a medical outreach programme for landfill workers.

More than 100 workers received health check-ups, recognising their contributions to environmental sustainability and improving their overall well-being. A Principal Quality Control Officer in wastewater and environmental management, UNILAG, Dr. AbdulGaniyu Adelopo, who led the initiative, emphasised the significance of such engagements in fostering a cleaner and more efficient waste management system.

Discussing Nigeria’s waste management landscape, Adelopo highlighted the varying levels of commitment among states. He stated, “While Lagos is actively advancing waste management efforts, other states across Nigeria still lag.” He called for nationwide improvements, stressing that despite ongoing efforts, much work remains to be done.

The research, funded by Mastercard, takes a continental perspective, incorporating insights from across Africa, including Nairobi, and Kenya, where similar challenges exist.

This inclusive approach aims to develop African solutions for African problems. He further explained the potential of AI in transforming the waste management system in Nigeria.

“AI applications could assess the economic value of landfills, facilitate the establishment of a data-driven operational centre for LAWMA and create a centralised system to attract investors.”

Additionally, AI-driven data collection could enhance efficiency and sustainability in waste management practices. He described this initiative as an important step that requires sustained engagement and collaboration to maximise its impact.
With digital innovation at its core, this project represents a major stride towards sustainable waste management and renewable energy development in Africa.

The ongoing research and collaborations are expected to pave way for future advancements, ensuring a cleaner and more resource-efficient continent. Head, Landfill/TLS LAWMA.Olumide Mumuney,, lauded the collaborative initiative in ensuring that something significant is done to reduce the carbon emissions across the landfill.

Mumuney expressed hope on the potency of AI to eliminate the global issue of climate change and global warming.

“Climate change and global warming has been a major global concern, and the induction of AI in this regard will be a major breakthrough and drive.” He stated.
He reaffirmed LAWMA’s dedication to minimisingb landfill gas and carbon emissions through strategic initiatives.