Owerri, Nigeria — [April 25, 2026]
The Africa Centre of Excellence in Future Energies and Electrochemical Systems (ACE-FUELS), Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), proudly announces the successful commissioning of its state-of-the-art research facility, ACE-FUELS ElectroLab X – Electrochemical Lab for Accelerated Breakthroughs and eXponential Energy Technologies, by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group.
The landmark event underscores a major step forward in Nigeria’s drive to advance cutting-edge research in clean energy technologies, materials science, and sustainable industrial solutions.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote was received by the Pro-Chancellor, Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, OFR, CON; the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nnenna N. Oti; the Vice-Chancellor-Elect, Prof. Iyke Dozie; alongside members of the University Management, Governing Council, and Senate, reflecting the strategic importance of the occasion.
During the visit, Alhaji Dangote toured the newly established laboratory facilities, including advanced systems for battery research, next-generation solar cell development, and materials characterization.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Emeka E. Oguzie, Director of ACE-FUELS, emphasized the significance of the commissioning:
«“This commissioning represents more than a new laboratory, it is a platform for transformative research, capacity building, and industrial partnership. We are excited about the opportunities this engagement with Dangote Group presents for scaling solutions that address Africa’s energy and materials challenges.”»
Alhaji Dangote commended the Centre’s vision, world-class infrastructure, and strong alignment with industrial priorities in energy, manufacturing, and sustainability.
The newly commissioned ElectroLab X is designed to support:
– Advanced battery technologies (including sodium-ion and beyond-lithium systems)
– Next-generation solar cell development (including perovskite technologies)
– Materials degradation and corrosion research
– Circular economy and clean energy innovations
This milestone reinforces ACE-FUELS’ position as a leading hub for energy research and innovation in Africa and opens new pathways for strategic industry collaboration.
About ACE-FUELS:
The Africa Centre of Excellence in Future Energies and Electrochemical Systems (ACE-FUELS), hosted at the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), is dedicated to advancing research, training, and innovation in sustainable energy technologies and materials science.
