The Ijanikin Development Area, a locality facing problems with water quality, is located in the centre of Lagos State. But among the difficulties, one man sticks out. Coordination chemistry is being used by Abel Egbemhenghe, a young scientist with a sharp mind who graduated from Lagos State University, to transform water treatment in the area. Abel talks about his path, his successes, and his idea for a safer, cleaner future in an exclusive interview.
Can you start by telling us about your work in water treatment in the Ijanikin Development Area of Ojo Local Government in Lagos State?
My work in water treatment revolves around utilising coordination chemistry principles to purify water and ensure its safety for the community in Ijanikin. I focus on removing contaminants such as heavy metals and organic pollutants to improve water quality.
Could you explain how coordination chemistry is involved in your water treatment processes?
Coordination chemistry plays a crucial role in several aspects of water treatment. Firstly, through complexation and chelation, we form stable structures between metal ions and ligands, effectively trapping contaminants. Additionally, redox reactions catalysed by transition metal complexes help degrade organic pollutants. Finally, the surface chemistry of metal oxides and coordination complexes facilitates adsorption, removing pollutants from the water.
Can you share any specific examples of your work in action?
Certainly, one of my favourite projects is creating a new adsorbent with metal oxide nanoparticles and chelating ligands. These nanoparticles have shown a high affinity for heavy metal ions in water, effectively removing them from the solution. Additionally, we’ve implemented catalytic oxidation processes using transition metal complexes to degrade organic pollutants, ensuring cleaner water for the community.
Can you walk us through the process of how you identify and prioritise contaminants in the water sources of the Ijanikin Development Area?
Of course, I started by conducting thorough water quality assessments, including sampling from various sources such as rivers, boreholes, and reservoirs. We then analyse these samples in the lab to identify the presence of contaminants, focusing on parameters like heavy metals, organic pollutants, and microbial contaminants. Based on the findings, we prioritise contaminants based on their potential health risks and environmental impact.
How do you select and design specific coordination compounds or materials for removing these contaminants?
It’s a multi-step process. We begin by researching existing coordination compounds and materials known for their affinity towards the identified contaminants. We then design and synthesise new materials or modify existing ones to enhance their performance. Factors such as selectivity, adsorption capacity, and cost-effectiveness are carefully considered during the design process. Collaborating with material scientists and chemists helps ensure that our designs are both effective and practical for real-world applications.
Can you tell us more about the partnerships or collaborations you’ve established to advance your research and implementation efforts?
Absolutely, complex problems like water treatment require collaboration. I work with my family, who were interested in my ideas, especially when I implemented them in my home, different homes in my street, manufacturing companies in Ijanikin, and government agencies to access expertise, resources, and funding. I also work with community organisations and stakeholders to ensure my projects meet local requirements.
How do you ensure the sustainability and long-term viability of your water treatment solutions in the Ijanikin community?
Sustainability supports my efforts. My operations prioritise ecologically friendly products and processes to reduce our ecological footprint and encourage long-term environmental stewardship. I use eco-friendly water treatment materials to demonstrate our sustainability. Chitosan or plant-based extracts are used as coagulants instead of chemicals. Alternatives clarify water without polluting the environment. In addition, I have built unique filtering technologies to recover and reuse treated water to reduce waste. Membrane technologies or biological filtering can limit wastewater outflow, saving resources and reducing pollution. Another essential part of our environmental approach is using renewable energy. I employ solar panels to power our water treatment plants, reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Many thanks to my friend Toyosi Lamina, who’s a renewable energy expert. By using the abundant sunlight in our region, I reduced operational costs and helped transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. My goal goes beyond technology to capacity building and community empowerment. I teach local populations about water conservation through workshops and outreach activities to enhance resource efficiency and environmental resilience. I also involve community residents in water infrastructure development and management, encouraging ownership and accountability that ensure our efforts’ long-term sustainability.
How has your work impacted the Ijanikin community so far?
Well, my efforts have significantly improved access to clean and safe drinking water in the area. By implementing innovative water treatment technologies based on coordination chemistry principles, we’ve seen a reduction in waterborne diseases and an overall improvement in public health. Moreover, my sustainable approach to water treatment has garnered support from local stakeholders, paving the way for long-term solutions to water quality challenges.
What are your plans and aspirations for water treatment in Ijanikin?
I want to improve our water treatment methods and outreach to give Ijanikin residents even better access to clean water. I also want to work with other researchers and groups on sustainable water treatment technology. In the end, I want to help with the larger endeavour of encouraging environmental responsibility and making sure that our town and others have a healthier, more sustainable future.
Could you provide some insights into the team structure involved in your water treatment projects in the Ijanikin Development Area? How is your team organised to tackle the various challenges associated with water purification?
My small team consists of just one chemist who works with me on the design and synthesis of innovative materials for water purification. We also use coordination chemistry principles to create efficient catalysts and adsorbents, analyse water quality, and evaluate the environmental impact of our treatment procedures. In addition, I have two engineers who concentrate on the design and optimisation of water treatment systems, guaranteeing effectiveness and dependability, as well as the installation and upkeep of the equipment utilised in our projects, guaranteeing seamless ground operations.
Could you share with us your personal life mantra or guiding principle that shapes your decisions and actions?
My life mantra is “Embrace the journey.” I see life as experiences, challenges, and growth opportunities. I value and learn from every stage of the trip rather than just the destination. This approach keeps me present, flexible, and resilient in the face of adversity and encourages me to enjoy those moments of delight and discovery. Embracing the path gives me purpose, gratitude, and an open heart.
