Waterborne Diseases: Unilorin don identifies organisms for purifying water
Olatunji Kolawole, a virologist with the University of Ilorin (Unilorin), has identified novel bioflocculants (organisms) capable of treating water.
According to the Unilorin Bulletin, Mr Kolawole made the discovery while investigating bacteria and viruses associated with waterborne diseases in 2020.
Bioflocculation is a process in which mediation of flocculants is achieved in the presence of microorganisms or biodegradable macromolecular flocculants released by microorganisms.
The publication said the bioflocculants cause the clumping together of dispersed organic particles, which could remove microbes and chemical pollutants from water and wastewater.
It stated that these novel organisms have now been crystallised to increase their efficiency in water/wastewater treatment.
“Kolawole has worked extensively on enteric viruses isolated from humans and water bodies,” it stated. “He has also worked on other public health concerns, including coronavirus, adenovirus, hepatitis virus, human papillomavirus, arboviruses, haemorrhagic viruses, poliovirus and enteroviruses.”
It stated that the significance of the discovery of bioflocculants is that they are degradable, safe, less costly, available and eco-friendly in contrast to chemical flocculants.
The publication explained that the chemical produces toxic sludge and contains heavy metals which destroy human organs.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
NationWide
National Assembly to organise summit on aviation sector
He said that the summit would address challenges in the aviation sector to proffer solutions to them.
NationWide
CDS Musa calls for stronger military, NIA collaboration to tackle insecurity
The CDS commended the NIA boss for his exemplary leadership and commitment to national service.
NationWide
Don’t give up on Nigeria, Fayemi begs citizens
“The task of nation-building is not a one-off or static exercise, but is rather a dynamic and permanent work in progress.”
States
Workers are hungry; reinstate wage award: Anambra TUC tells Gov. Soludo
Mr Ogbonna said that both the state and the federal governments need to hasten the process of workers’ salary adjustment.
Heading 4
Lagos police identify officer who shot man dead at fuel station
“Investigation is still ongoing and further findings will be made available, ” he said.
Anti-Corruption
Kano govt. nabs three senior officials for collecting bribes to secure citizenship for illegal migrants
“We will keep interrogating them and at the end, if found wanting, they will be prosecuted.”