FG Approves N4.2bn for 158 Research Projects, Innovation Hubs

The Federal Government has approved a grant of N4.2 billion for the funding of 158 research projects under the 2024 National Research Fund Grant Cycle of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

This approval followed recommendations by the TETFund National Research Fund Screening and Monitoring Committee, which reviewed a total of 6,944 concept notes before selecting the successful proposals.

According to a statement from TETFund’s Public Affairs Department, signed by Abdulmumin Oniyangi on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, N2.35 billion was allocated to Science, Engineering, Technology, and Innovation. N1.03 billion was assigned to Humanities and Social Sciences, while Cross-Cutting Research Areas received N870.7 million.

The Federal University of Technology, Minna secured the highest number of research awards with 15 projects worth N400 million. It was followed by Ahmadu Bello University with 13 awards totaling N359.8 million, and the Federal University of Technology, Akure with 12 awards valued at N341.6 million. Other institutions included the Federal University of Technology, Owerri with 11 awards worth N256.3 million, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi with 10 awards totaling N273.4 million, and the University of Ilorin with 8 awards amounting to N220.5 million.

Highlighted among the funded projects are the development of sustainable eco-friendly walling systems for rural housing, the creation of hybrid cubic fertilizers using plant-based binders for efficient nutrient release, and an intelligent aerial robotics system for weed and disease control in maize-cowpea farmlands. Other approved projects include artificial intelligence-enabled Internet of Medical Things for military physiological monitoring and an intelligent electrical energy management metering system.

In a related initiative, the Federal Government has approved contracts for the establishment of 18 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hubs across TETFund beneficiary institutions in the six geo-political zones.

These hubs will be equipped with facilities such as electronic labs, 3D printing labs, laser technology labs, product design labs, robotics and coding stations, and artificial intelligence development workstations. The aim is to promote practical application of research outcomes, fostering innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration tailored to institutional needs.

In further support of innovation hubs and entrepreneurship centers, the Federal Government has also approved the allocation of funds under the 2025 Intervention to 15 TETFund beneficiary institutions. Federal University Dutse, University of Uyo, and University of Ibadan each received an allocation of N1 billion. Other beneficiaries include Federal Polytechnic Bida, Taraba State Polytechnic Jalingo, Adamawa State Polytechnic Yola, Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic Zuru, Kano State Polytechnic Kano, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Uwana, Auchi Polytechnic Auchi, Bayelsa State Polytechnic Aliebiri, Federal Polytechnic Ede, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo, College of Education (Technical) Kabba, and Enugu State College of Education (Technical) Enugu, each receiving N750 million.