The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • Firm gives N40m scholarship to 200 students

    Firm gives N40m scholarship to 200 students

    BUA Cement Company has awarded N40 million scholarship to 200 students from across Sokoto , Kebbi , Zamfara states with special consideration to the host community to further deepen its Corporate Social Responsibility priority to education.

    The initiative was aimed at impacting BUA’s drive for youth educational empowerment and support to communities.

    Speaking at the formal symbolic presentation of the cheques to respective States officials on Tuesday at BUA’s premises in Sokoto , the Managing Director, Engineer Yusuf Binji said the company was passionate about transformative  drives that impact people within the community it operates and catchment states.

    He noted that education was the fabric and strategic premise that drives progress and innovative advantage that complements investments for  national growth.

    “ We are desirous and concerned about the educational upliftment and academic standard of students in Wamakko community,”  he pointed out.

    According to Binji, represented by the Plant Director,  Aminu Bashar said the support to the students to pursue their education was a fundamental and necessary aspect of BUA’s CSR trajectory to host the community.

    “ We want to celebrate excellence with improved academic performance of all of you for deliberate evaluation.

    “ You should take advantage of this rare opportunity by committing your time to achieve better results that would translate your future in a positive light,” he said.

     Head of Department, Health,Community  Safety and Environment, Ali Gumel explained that the hall mark of its commitment was designed empower youths in the community in the spirit of giving back to them through supporting their educational desires so they can in the end, contribute their quota the development of the community, state and nation.

    “ This will positively brace the students’ capacity and desire to achieve academic excellence,”  he said.

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    However, he explained that each of the benefiting states was presented a N10 million cheque including the immediate host community assuring that the students would in the next one week receive payments.

    Meanwhile , representatives from the three benefiting states including Professor Rashida Usman (Zamfara), Hon. Usman Arzika (Sokoto) and Yusuf Abubakar (Kebbi) and the District Head(Ubandoman) Arkilla in  Wamakko  community , Alhaji Aliyu Hassan acknowledged the sustained efforts of BUA Cement in turning around the impact of its operations to the people.

    “ We sincerely appreciate the support enjoyed by our people, especially students of our communities,”  they said.

    The  District Head appealed to the company to review its recruitment quota for the immediate host community (Wamakko).

    He emphasised the need to review the 35% quota for the three states and open doors for more permanent employment to them than casual.

    “ We want you to at least give us 50% consideration “, he appealed just as the Chairman of Wamakko local government corroborated a similar request.

    One student each from the benefitting states also commended BUA gestures and support to their educational pursuits, assuring that they would not fail the company by ensuring they excel.

  • FUTA don seeks demystification of mathematics in schools

    FUTA don seeks demystification of mathematics in schools

    A professor of Mathematics at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Ondo State, Felix Ilesanmi Alao, has called for renewed efforts to demystify General Mathematics by making it a universally accessible subject for learners at all levels.

    Alao, a professor of Fluid Mechanics, made the call while delivering the university’s 188th inaugural lecture titled: “Mathematics: Myths, Mysteries and Life” at FUTA’s main campus in Akure.

    He said mathematics should not be perceived merely as a complex web of formulas and symbols but as the fundamental language of commerce, science, engineering, technology and everyday decision-making.

    According to him, the fear and stigma associated with the subject can be eliminated through improved teaching methods and stronger foundational support for learners.

    “Teachers of mathematics from primary to tertiary levels should remove the induced stigmatisation towards mathematics being perceived as ‘mysterious’ by making its teaching friendly,” he said.

    Prof. Alao emphasised that mathematics remains the bedrock of science, technology and innovation, yet continues to be viewed as difficult by many students.

    The don asked education administrators to employ qualified, competent mathematics teachers and provide them with attractive remuneration.

    He called on governments at all levels to invest in conducive learning environments, including modern classrooms, mathematics laboratories, computers, and teaching aids.

    Alao also advocated special allowances for mathematics teachers to encourage excellence in teaching the subject.

    The university don appealed to parents to stop discouraging children who show interest in mathematics, saying they should nurture rather than discriminate against such aspirations.

    He added that “life itself may be viewed as a mathematical equation,” noting that the ability to convert negatives into positives mirrors the problem-solving nature of mathematics.

    “Without mathematics, there’s nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is number.

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    “Most real-life situations align with fundamental mathematical concepts. Mathematics equips us to qualify and quantify both visible and invisible phenomena, fostering objectivity and analytical thinking. Therefore, an average mathematician is always analytical, objective, and discreet.”

    Alao highlighted the extensive application of mathematics in budgeting, financial planning, construction, architecture, engineering, computer technology, weather forecasting, sports science, health sciences, and among others.

    He noted the historic use of applied mathematics in warfare, particularly during World War II when Allied forces employed Operations Research to optimise resource allocation, convoy routing and strategic planning – a contribution he described as “indispensable.”

    In her remarks, FUTA Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, commended Alao for delivering an insightful lecture, describing him as an authority in a highly technical field.

    She noted that the don has consistently demonstrated excellence, mentoring graduates who are now thriving in various sectors.

  • Lagos begins distribution of textbooks to basic schools

    Lagos begins distribution of textbooks to basic schools

    The Lagos State Government, on Tuesday, commenced the distribution of textbooks to public primary and secondary schools to ensure access to learning materials and high-quality education across the state.

    The  flag-off ceremony was held at the state’s Resource Centre, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos.

    Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Tolani Alli-Balogun, described the initiative as a demonstration of the state’s unwavering commitment to strengthening teaching and learning in all public schools. Alli-Balogun noted that education was incomplete without access to textbooks.

    He added that proper learning materials equip students for academic success, enhance comprehension, and foster a conducive environment for classroom instruction.

    Alli-Balogun commended the teachers in the state for their dedication, efforts and the impressive performance of students in recent examinations, which continues to place Lagos State at the forefront of national educational achievement.

    “They really tried and are still trying their best. In the last exam, they excelled due to their energy, commitment, and hard work, though more efforts are needed to sustain excellence,” he said. Addressing students, the commissioner urged them to embrace discipline, curiosity, and consistent effort, describing the present moment as a turning point for academic growth and self-development in Lagos schools.

    He also encouraged them to study independently, seek clarification from teachers repeatedly, and maintain respect, obedience, and a positive attitude to ensure a fruitful learning experience. “If a topic is unclear, consult your teacher repeatedly, but do so respectfully. Approach lessons with humility, diligence, and success will follow. Take cognisance of both effort and respectful engagement in learning,” he  added.

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    He also commended his team, including the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, for their dedication to implementing education policies effectively. The commissioner urged teachers to safeguard the newly distributed textbooks by ensuring proper usage.

    He also urged school principals to reinforce responsibility among students and staff. Alli-Balogun, however, praised them for supporting the state’s THEMES Plus agenda, particularly its focus on improving education and integrating technology, reinforcing Lagos State’s commitment to modern, quality teaching practices.

    He said the first batch of textbooks primarily targets Senior Secondary 3 students, focusing on Mathematics, English, and core subjects.

    Alli-Balogun disclosed that more textbooks would be procured next year to expand coverage across schools.

    He revealed that digital tablets would soon be provided to SS3 students to support independent learning and improve performance in line with the THEMES Plus education and technology objectives of the state government.

  • Prof. Duru gains recognition for work on gender, media reform, governance

    Prof. Duru gains recognition for work on gender, media reform, governance

    Nigerian-American public-policy scholar, Prof. Sandra Chidinma Duru, has attracted attention for her work on gender, media reform, and administrative ethics across Africa and the diaspora, following a series of academic achievements, programme launches, and professional initiatives.

    Born in Imo State, Duru registered her first NGO at 17 and has since operated across multiple sectors, including strategic communications, governance research, organic health production, and youth leadership development.

    She holds a PhD in Public Policy & Administration from African American University (2025), where her dissertation examined the weaponisation of gender-based laws and their effects on public administration.

    Her qualifications also include degrees from Escae Benin University, a certificate from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, and various honorary titles from international institutions.

    Duru was appointed Professor of Public Policy & Strategic Communications at the International American University, Los Angeles, in 2023 and received several professional fellowships and memberships in 2025 from organisations including the National Institute of Credit Administration, the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, and the Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria.

    She serves as President/CEO of Mgbeke Village Hut LLC in Texas, an organisation focused on public-health research, organic food production, and social education. Since 2012, she has worked as an independent media scientist and public-policy consultant in Nigeria and the United States.

    Between 2023 and 2025, she coordinated the National Campaign Against Political and Gender-Based Disinformation and has provided gender-mainstreaming consultancy to the Nigerian Police Force Gender Unit (2021–2024).

    She also directs the Students & Youth Leadership Integrity Programme.

    Her earlier contributions include developing a proposed policy framework for a merged Ministry of Gender Affairs submitted to the African Union and the Presidency, and collaborating with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria on its Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP).

    Duru has published several works in 2025, including Unheard Screams: The Hidden War on (Wo)men, Weaponizing Policy, The Laws They Twist, and Lie-Tasha: The Symphony of Deceit.

    She founded Project TruthShield in the same year and produced the Lie-Tasha documentary series on disinformation and social manipulation. She also hosts media programmes including Bare It Out With Prof. Mgbeke and TUFF Connect With Sandra Duru, while producing Case Study Live and Youth Round Table.

    In 2025, she received the Overall Best PhD Graduating Student Merit Award from African American University, alongside recognitions for peace and excellence from global research institutes.

    Her previous honours include awards from the Global Women Leaders Forum, African Policy Institute, West African Media Network, and Transparency International Africa.

    Duru maintains affiliations with the International Public Policy Association, African Studies Association, African Leadership Forum, Commonwealth Business Council, and several Nigerian professional bodies.

    She has founded multiple organisations since 1999, covering areas such as organic farming, education, media production, and enterprise development.

    Recent updates highlight her continued mentorship and grassroots engagement, with reports that a mentee recently won a local government election using governance frameworks developed under her guidance. Analysts note that her expanding body of work continues to contribute to discussions on governance reform, gender politics, and strategic communications in Africa and beyond.

  • Why technical, applied science education are key to Nigeria’s development – AATU VC

    Why technical, applied science education are key to Nigeria’s development – AATU VC

    The Vice-Chancellor, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, Professor Adesola Ajayi, has called for the strengthening of technical and applied science education, saying they remain central to Nigeria’s development.

    This is as he also said, universities must become hubs of practical innovation rather than mere centres of theory.

    He spoke while fielding questions from reporters at a press conference, as part of activities marking the convocation week of the University.

    He noted that the mandate of the institution as a technology-focused university is to produce graduates who are technically grounded, entrepreneurially prepared, and globally competitive.

    Speaking on the graduation statistics, he said no fewer than 50 students bagged First Class Honours out of a total of 183 students who will be bagging degrees from various departments of the institution at the coming fifth convocation ceremonies.

    He recalled that the emphasis on technical education formed the backdrop to the university’s training.

    Giving the breakdown of the graduands, the Vice-Chancellor said that 75 graduands emerge from the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, 86 are from Engineering and Technology, and 22 from the newly established Faculty of Environmental Sciences.

    While highlighting the significant infrastructural and academic progress made by the institution, Prof. Ajayi acknowledged support from both the federal and Oyo state governments, noting that the state government has allocated N2.5 billion as a capital project in this year’s budget, alongside other direct infrastructural interventions.

    He added that the university has benefitted considerably from TETFund, which has committed about N4 billion towards various projects across the campus.

    According to him, Infrastructural upgrades included internal road construction, a completed workshop, an ongoing staff office complex, and a 200-bed hostel built through a PPP arrangement, now approximately 90 per cent completed.

    On the large number of First-Class graduates, the Vice-Chancellor reiterated the institution’s reputation for academic rigour, saying, “We have a very rigorous system not only for students but for staff. Nobody gets any form of discretion to make a First Class; it is merit-based.

    “In the sciences, the answers are clear; either you get them right, or you don’t. Naturally, even in federal universities, there is a preponderance of First Class and Second Class Upper graduates in the sciences, and we are a major science institution.”

    He disclosed that on security, the university has introduced proactive measures to protect students, adding that Amotekun operatives have been specially deployed to the institution, while a full perimeter fence has been completed.

    “Our security staff have also undergone government-facilitated training to strengthen campus safety,” he said.

    The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the university’s commitment to staff development through continuous training and retraining, aimed at enhancing performance and welfare.

    He added that this year’s convocation is particularly significant as it coincides with the university’s 13th Founders’ Week.

    “Although the institution received its licence in 2012, academic activities formally began in January 2018. Since then, the university has grown “steadily, purposefully and responsibly.

    “This year’s graduating set includes the first cohorts from Science Laboratory Technology, Civil Engineering, Industrial and Production Engineering, and all six programmes within the Faculty of Environmental Sciences.

    “The celebrations began with a Thanksgiving Service on 7 December, while a Jumat Service will hold on Friday, ahead of the Convocation ceremony on Saturday, which Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to attend.”

    “A distinguishing feature of the university is that every student graduates with three certificates: a Bachelor’s degree, a Diploma in Entrepreneurship, and a Diploma in French.

    “This tripartite certification reflects the institution’s vision to produce graduates who are academically grounded, entrepreneurially equipped, and linguistically empowered”, he said

    He added that when the pioneer First-Class graduates completed their studies, each received a scholarship, and those who opted to work at the university were employed at a monthly salary of N150,000 and sponsored for postgraduate degrees, support which now extends to their PhD programmes.

    The Vice-Chancellor further stressed that as a technology institution, the university is committed to research that solves real problems.

    “The Research Committee has adopted Ibadan metropolis as its research laboratory, with final-year projects tied to observed community needs. Examples include a smart device for detecting adulterated fuel, engineering solutions for domestic electrical faults, and prototypes addressing urban and environmental challenges.

    “The university’s entrepreneurship programme helps students refine these innovations, pitch ideas, and receive mentorship, resulting in graduates who excel globally, with some now working as academics abroad.”

    Professor Ajayi said the institution maintained strong partnerships with industries, private companies, and professional bodies to provide students with internships, industry exposure, and employment opportunities.

    He added that the university’s governance structure is rooted in transparency, merit, and clearly defined succession plans guided by established laws, with recruitment based on measurable performance indicators.

  • UNN VC calls for increased budgetary allocation

    UNN VC calls for increased budgetary allocation

    The Vice Chancellor, University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, has called on the Federal Government to increase the budgetary allocation next year to accommodate agribase digital innovations, scale up farming in state levels, notably Enugu, Ebonyi and other pilot centres in various parts of the country and Africa

    The VC made this call at the end of the meeting of Accelerating inclusive green growth through Agri-based Digital Innovation in West Africa, AGriDi in UNN, a European Union (EU), funded project by icipe (International) in Abuja.

    He explained: “Our appeal is that AGriDi should be included in the 2026 budget. This will help the team not to depend on foreign donors. Just last week the Enugu State government presented a budget of N1.6trillion. This is encouraging because agriculture has a good share of the budget, but the inclusion of AGriDi will help in the research project.

    “The European Union and other partners are simply trying to support the efforts of the federal government with respect to agriculture. The UNN is the pilot centre for the aggregate project expecting the aggregate to come back as there will be other pilot centres in other African countries too.’’

    Project Team Leader AGriDI, UNN,Prof.  Antonia Achike, stated that the team had developed a digital app that will support rice farming especially during the dried season in Nigeria and across Africa, assuring that it has been tested in the field and is working.

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    The professor of Agricultural Economics  noted that 65 per cent of Nigerians are into agriculture, yet there is hunger, adding that statistics show that something is wrong which needed be fixed. She added that the Kampala declaration shows that every government in Africa is expected to allocate at least 10 per cent of its budget to agriculture and that Nigeria allocates eight per cent.

    Achike said the focus is to look at what has been done in the past 15 months, and get a buy-in more from international funders and governments across all levels.

    This will upscale the good result the team has from other pilot programmes.

  • Bildup AI launches N15m National AI Challenge for students

    Bildup AI launches N15m National AI Challenge for students

    Bildup AI has launched a nationwide artificial intelligence competition offering N15 million in prizes, fully funded training and a chance for Nigerian students to build real-world AI solutions that could shape the country’s future. 

    The initiative, known as the National AI Career Readiness Challenge, targets secondary school students, school leavers, and 100-level undergraduates across Nigeria in what the organisation calls a “generational intervention” to redefine youth skills development.

    Announcing the programme, Bildup AI’s Chief Executive Officer, Chibuike Aguene, said the challenge was created to confront the growing skills mismatch that leaves millions of young Nigerians unemployable despite years of schooling.

    He said: “Most of our young people are being prepared for a world that no longer exists. They are memorizing facts while the world is building algorithms. They are chasing degrees while the world is chasing skills”. 

    Aguene warned that the world is advancing at a pace far beyond what local education systems are preparing students for, noting that AI is already transforming sectors from healthcare to agriculture. 

    “Do they know that AI is diagnosing diseases faster than doctors in some rural clinics? That it’s being used to help farmers in Kenya and India predict rainfall and triple their yields? Do they know that the world is not waiting?” he asked.

    He cited global assessments by the World Bank, the World Economic Forum, UNESCO and UNICEF, which all highlight the urgent need for African countries to equip young people with future-facing skills.

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    According to him, the continent is not only battling unemployment but “a talent pipeline collapse,” as businesses increasingly struggle to find workers with the digital competencies needed to innovate and grow.

    The CEO further explained that Bildup AI has developed a platform that helps young people “gain clarity about who they are, build capacity along their chosen career path, and master skills 70% faster and 80% cheaper than traditional methods.” 

    He stressed that the National AI Career Readiness Challenge is designed not just as a programme but as a national movement to democratize AI literacy.

    “Every participant will receive a full scholarship covering access to Bildup AI’s career advisory tool, a two-month immersive learning experience that requires only two hours of flexible learning daily, personalised mentorship from AI facilitators and academic advisors, and hands-on project development across health, education, agriculture, tech, finance, energy and more. Participants will also compete for N15 million in prizes; ranging from laptops and internships to a N6 million AI laboratory for the winning school”, he said.

    Aguene described the initiative as both a technological and social justice intervention.

    “This challenge is not just about jobs. It’s about giving every young Nigerian, regardless of background, a fair shot at the future. It’s about breaking the cycle of misaligned education and wasted potential. It’s about turning our greatest liability; youth unemployment into our greatest asset: a generation of AI-literate, purpose-driven, future-ready builders”, he said. 

    He illustrated the potential impact with examples of what young Nigerians could achieve if given the right tools: “Imagine a 17-year-old girl in Bauchi building an AI tool to detect malaria early, or a 19-year-old boy in Enugu creating a chatbot that helps farmers access market prices in real time. Imagine a student in Kano designing a model that predicts flood risks, or an 18-year-old girl in Ibadan creating an AI-powered sign language translator for the deaf community. This is not a dream. This is the future we’re building starting today.”

    Calling on parents, teachers, policymakers and community leaders to take responsibility for preparing the next generation, Aguene described the challenge as “a turning point for Nigeria.” 

    He warned that if stakeholders fail to act, the country could lose another generation to confusion, unemployment and wasted potential. “You are not too young to lead. You are not too young to build. This is your moment,” he told young Nigerians nationwide.

    Applications for the fully funded programme are open until January 20, and Bildup AI encourages early registration to increase participants’ chances.

  • Afrograms Alumni launch initiative to tackle poverty-driven dropouts

    Afrograms Alumni launch initiative to tackle poverty-driven dropouts

    In a powerful demonstration of community-driven change, alumni of the African Church Grammar School (ACGS), Abeokuta, have launched a targeted intervention to address a persistent yet often overlooked barrier to education: the lack of school shoes among pupils from low-income families.

    The 9602 set of ACGS distributed over 700 pairs of school shoes to every student in Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1) during a moving ceremony on Tuesday. But this gesture is far more than a seasonal act of charity—it is a strategic response to a nationwide challenge that continues to impede school attendance, dignity, and academic engagement among Nigeria’s most vulnerable learners.

    The initiative, aptly named “Lace a Child,” was conceived after alumni observed the widespread absence of proper footwear in public secondary schools—a reality that echoes across generations. Former President Goodluck Jonathan famously recounted his own shoeless school days during the 2011 election campaign, underscoring how little has changed for many children two decades on.

    “For many children, a broken sandal or no shoes at all isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a reason to stay home,” said Kunle Babatunde, Public Relations Officer of the 9602 set. “We’ve been there. We know how shame and discomfort can rob a child of confidence, let alone the chance to learn. This project is about restoring dignity and saying, quite literally, ‘We’ve got your back—and your feet.’”

    Jamiu Olakunle Agboola, President of the alumni group, described the distribution as only the first stride in a broader vision. “We aim to cover the entire school in the coming years,” he said. “But more than that, ‘Lace a Child’ has become a symbol of what ordinary people can do when they choose empathy over indifference. These shoes carry hope—and the message that someone believes in these children’s future.”

    For 12-year-old Ayorinde Oscar, a JSS1 pupil and one of Tuesday’s beneficiaries, the gift was deeply personal. “My shoes were torn beyond use,” he said, his voice tinged with relief. “I was dreading the new term. Now, I won’t have to walk barefoot or borrow. My parents won’t have to choose between shoes and food.”

    School Principal Oluseyi Kusimo commended the alumni for addressing a critical need that often falls through the cracks of education policy. “This isn’t just about footwear—it’s about easing the financial burden on struggling families and reinforcing to our pupils that their education matters,” he said. “Such acts strengthen the very fabric of our school community.”

    With national data indicating that over 10 million Nigerian children remain out of school—many due to poverty-related issues like lack of uniforms or shoes—the “Lace a Child” project offers a replicable model of grassroots social responsibility. In a time of widespread educational inequity, the 9602 set of ACGS Abeokuta has proven that sometimes, change begins at the feet—and moves upward.

  • UNIZIK VC: Lecturers petition Minister

    UNIZIK VC: Lecturers petition Minister

    Lecturers at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, under the aegis of the Concerned Lecturers of UNIZIK have petitioned Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa calling for the reinstatement of Prof Benard Ifeanyi Odoh as the duly appointed Vice – Chancellor of the institution.

    Their call for Prof Odoh’s reinstatement is based on the ruling of the National Industrial Court last Monday, delivered by Hon Justice E D Subilim.

    Justice Subilim held that Professor Odoh was validly appointed, properly evaluated by a panel of three professors and lawfully promoted to the rank of full professor ten years ago.

    The court also ruled that Odoh’s appointment renders every allegation of ineligibility legally groundless and consequently ordered full restoration of his statutory rights, privileges and entitlements as Vice – Chancellor, even as it directed the Federal University of Gusau to issue him a written apology to be published in a national newspaper.

    The Court also awarded N5million in damages for the unlawful interference with his lawful entitlements.

    Recall that controversy trailed Professor Odoh’s appointment as the seventh substantive Vice – Chancellor on 29 October 2024, when some individuals within the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) alleged that he was not yet a Full Professor at the time of his selection.

    Acting on the information by ASUU, the Federal Ministry of Education directed the dissolution of the Governing Council, removed Odoh from office and appointed Professor Ikechebelu, as Acting Vice Chancellor.

    Last month, Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Barr. Olugbenga Kukoyi, announced Professor Ugochukwu Anyaehie as the new substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university for a single tenure of five years.

    Anyaehie assumed office on November 19th, 2025.

  • UNN VC seeks AgriDi’s inclusion in 2026 federal budget allocation 

    UNN VC seeks AgriDi’s inclusion in 2026 federal budget allocation 

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, has urged the Federal Government to increase its 2026 budgetary allocation to accommodate the Agri-based Digital Innovations (AgriDi) research programme. 

    He said the inclusion would boost agricultural activities across states, especially in Enugu, Ebonyi, and other pilot centres in Nigeria and Africa.

    Prof. Ortuanya made the appeal during the close-out meeting of the Accelerating Inclusive Green Growth through Agri-based Digital Innovation in West Africa (AgriDi) project in Abuja. 

    The initiative, which operates from UNN, is currently funded by the European Union in partnership with the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe).

    He commended the Federal Government’s expansive 2025 budget but expressed hope that AgriDi would be captured in the 2026 fiscal plan.

    “Our appeal is that AGriDi should be included in the 2026 budget. This will help the team not to completely depend on foreign donors. Just last week, the Enugu State government presented a budget of N1.6 trillion with agriculture having a fair share. It is appreciated, but including AGriDi will further strengthen the research project,” he said.

    Prof. Ortuanya noted that the European Union and other partners were only supporting Nigeria’s agricultural development efforts, adding that UNN remains the pilot centre for the programme, with more centres expected to emerge across Africa.

    Also speaking, Professor of Agriculture and Economics at UNN and AgriDi project team leader, Prof. Antonia Achike, revealed that the team had developed a digital application designed to support rice farming, especially during dry seasons across Nigeria and Africa. 

    She confirmed that the technology had been tested successfully in the field.

    She expressed concern that despite 65 percent of Nigerians being engaged in agriculture, hunger persists. 

    She referenced the Kampala Declaration, which mandates African governments to allocate at least 10 percent of their national budgets to agriculture, while Nigeria currently allocates only 8 percent.

    Prof. Achike said the team was reviewing achievements recorded in the last 15 months with the aim of attracting more support from international partners and all levels of government, noting that such backing would help scale up the positive results already seen in other pilot programmes.