IMPACTS OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL ENERGY SOLUTIONS IN FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, NIGERIA

Abstract

Biotechnological energy solutions have emerged as transformative tools for promoting environmental sustainability and energy efficiency in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. This study examined the adoption, impact, and challenges associated with biotechnological applications such as biogas, bio fertilizers, biochar, and microbial bioremediation. Data collected from 400 stakeholders using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions revealed that biogas systems reduced methane emissions by up to 60%, biochar sequestered approximately 50% of original carbon in soil, and biofertilizers lowered nitrous oxide emissions by 30%. Furthermore, between 2013 and 2023, biofuel efficiency in Abuja increased from 10% to 35%, while adoption rates rose from 5% to 45%. Despite these advancements, adoption is hindered by high costs (reported by 82% of respondents), poor infrastructure (78%), limited skilled workforce (65%), and inconsistent policy enforcement (70%). Economic risks, such as high R&D costs ($120 billion) and funding shortfalls ($95 billion), further limit scale-up. Nonetheless, the study concludes that with improved policy coherence, investment incentives, and capacity-building, biotechnological energy can play a vital role in achieving Nigeria’s sustainability goals under SDGs 7 and 13.