By Efosa Taiwo

In a county grappling with water scarcity and pollution, Blessing Olagunju, a Nigerian scientist, is making waves with groundbreaking research that combines agricultural waste and nanoparticles to treat wastewater. 

Her work recently earned her recognition as one of the 30 female scientists honored at the 15th L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science program held in Cotonou, Benin Republic on December 10, 2024. 

In an interview with Efosa Taiwo, Blessing opened up about her inspiration, the challenges she faces, and her hopes for achieving sustainable water solutions in Nigeria.

A personal connection to water

Blessing’s passion for water treatment research stems from childhood experiences. 

Growing up, access to clean water was a challenge. She vividly recalls fetching cloudy, sediment-filled water from a nearby stream. “My mum would use alum to settle the water so we could wash and manage,” she reminisces.

While clean water solutions eventually improved in her area, the memories of those struggles stayed with her. Initially aspiring to become a doctor, Blessing found herself drawn to chemistry and began exploring practical research fields. She saw an opportunity to make an impact through water treatment. “I wanted something that could be of impact and practical,” she explains.

Innovation through waste and nanoparticles

Blessing’s research focuses on using agricultural waste—such as coconut shells, rice husks, and plantain peels—combined with nanoparticles like zinc oxide and titanium oxide for wastewater treatment. The novelty lies in the nanoparticle’s ability not only to remove pollutants but also to break them down into smaller, non-toxic components, ensuring water safety.

Her work has been ongoing for about five years, with impressive progress. “We’ve achieved high removal efficiency of chemical pollutants by exploring different conditions and waste materials,” she shares. Several of her findings are already published, marking significant strides in cost-effective water treatment solutions.

From laboratory to commercialization: the hiccups

Despite her successes, Blessing acknowledges that moving from research to large-scale implementation requires collaboration and funding. “We need support from governments, NGOs, and industries to scale these solutions,” she emphasises. She is currently focused on the dye and pharmaceutical industries, where untreated waste is often discharged into water bodies.

Cost remains a major barrier. While commercial water treatment solutions are expensive, Blessing’s method aims to offer a cheaper, sustainable alternative using locally sourced waste. “Change is a gradual process,” she says optimistically. “Once the cost-effectiveness and efficiency are proven, industries will adopt these solutions.”

Water barriers in Nigeria

When asked about barriers to achieving clean and sustainable water in Nigeria, Blessing points to weak policy implementation. She believes stricter enforcement of environmental policies, penalties for non-compliance, and recycling incentives could drive progress.

Water quality is still a key focus of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, she stresses, adding that Nigeria’s abundant water bodies offer great potential. “We have the resources; we just need to manage them effectively.

Women in science: breaking barriers

As a woman in a male-dominated field, Blessing credits her journey to discipline, mentorship, and a focus on excellence. “Science is not male or female; it’s about results,” she asserts. Her advice to aspiring female scientists is simple yet powerful: “Focus on your work, be disciplined, and let your results speak for themselves.”

A recognition for advancement

Being honored by L’Oreal-UNESCO marks a significant milestone for Blessing. Beyond personal achievement, the recognition opens doors for funding, collaboration, and global partnerships. “This award brings my work to the limelight and connects me with experts who can help advance my research,” she says with gratitude.

For Blessing Olagunju, water is life, and prioritizing water quality should be central to Nigeria’s national agenda. “It’s unthinkable that a country blessed with so many water bodies still struggles with water quality,” she laments. Her call to action is clear: implement policies that promote water recycling, treatment, and sustainability.

Vanguard News