WASTE WATER AS A RESOURCE FOR ALGAE CULTIVATION IN ABIA STATE SOUTH EAST NIGERIA

Wastewater mismanagement and energy insecurity remain pressing challenges in urban-industrial Nigeria. This study investigates the potential of wastewater as a resource for algae cultivation in Aba North and Osisioma Local Government Areas of Abia State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed, combining quantitative data from 361 respondents selected using Yamane’s formula with qualitative insights from key informant interviews. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interview guides, and secondary environmental reports, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-sample t-tests, and thematic analysis. The results confirmed that industrial and municipal effluents in Aba North and Osisioma contain adequate nutrient loads to sustain algae growth (M = 4.42; t = 5.87; p < 0.001). Findings further revealed strong stakeholder consensus on the feasibility of integrating wastewater-based algae systems into renewable energy production (M = 4.18; t = 4.67; p < 0.001). Respondents also emphasized significant environmental and socio-economic benefits, including wastewater remediation, reduced reliance on fossil fuels, lower effluent management costs, job creation, and opportunities for green entrepreneurship (M = 4.27; t = 5.02; p < 0.001). The study concludes that wastewater-driven algae cultivation is both feasible and socially acceptable in Aba North and Osisioma, offering dual benefits of environmental protection and renewable energy diversification. However, challenges such as limited technical expertise, weak policy support, and inadequate financing may hinder large-scale adoption. The research therefore recommends policy integration of algae bioenergy into Nigeria’s renewable energy frameworks, development of pilot demonstration projects, capacity building, and public–private partnerships to foster sustainable wastewater-to-energy transitions in the region.