FG Approves N1 Billion Grant for FUTA to Strengthen Agricultural Research and Food Production
The Federal Government has approved a ₦1 billion grant for the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), from its 2025 Special Intervention Fund. The fund, managed by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), is aimed at supporting FUTA’s agricultural commercial farm and strengthening Nigeria’s food production capacity.
In a letter addressed to FUTA’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, confirmed the allocation, noting that the approval followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of the 2025 intervention budget in line with the TETFund Act of 2011.
“FUTA has been selected for a special allocation of One Billion Naira to enhance its agricultural capacity and expand its farming projects,” Echono stated.
FUTA’s Drive Toward Food Security
Responding to the announcement, Professor Oladiji expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for recognizing FUTA’s consistent contributions to Nigeria’s food security agenda. She highlighted that the support would further strengthen the university’s agricultural ventures — particularly in vegetable production, tree planting, and greenhouse expansion.
FUTA’s Teaching and Research Farm currently assists local farmers with advanced cultivation techniques, including the production of F1 hybrid bell peppers and tomatoes. These improved species deliver higher yields and greater resistance to local climatic challenges, reflecting FUTA’s innovation-driven approach to agricultural research.
Expanding Greenhouses and Palm Plantation Projects
In addition to vegetable production, FUTA has expanded its palm plantation and commenced the construction of modern greenhouse facilities to improve productivity and support training for young agricultural entrepreneurs.
Professor Oladiji reaffirmed FUTA’s commitment to accountability, promising that the ₦1 billion allocation would be used judiciously and transparently.
“This grant is not just an investment in FUTA; it is an investment in Nigeria’s future food stability,” she said.
Strengthening National Growth Through Research-Based Agriculture
The funding is expected to help FUTA implement sustainable farming models, empower youth in agribusiness, and strengthen the research-to-market link between universities and local communities.
Through this intervention, FUTA is poised to play a greater role in advancing food self-sufficiency and agricultural innovation, bridging the gap between academic research and national development.
FUTA’s model continues to demonstrate how research-based agriculture can drive economic growth, improve food systems, and position Nigerian universities as key players in the nation’s journey toward agricultural independence.
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