FUTA Receives N1 Billion Federal Grant for Agriculture

The Federal Government of Nigeria has granted N1 billion from its 2025 Special Intervention Fund to the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA. The allocation, confirmed through a letter from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, was addressed to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji. The fund is set aside for FUTA's Agricultural Commercial Farm, strengthening its contribution to national food production.

According to Echono, the approval came following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's endorsement of the 2025 intervention budget, in line with the TETFund Act 2011. The letter stated that FUTA had been selected for a special allocation of One Billion Naira (N1,000,000,000.00) to enhance its agricultural capacity and expand its farming projects.

FUTA's Commitment to Food Security

Expanding Vegetable Production and Research

Responding to the announcement, Professor Oladiji expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for recognising FUTA's role in promoting food security. She noted that the support will strengthen FUTA's ongoing agricultural efforts, particularly in vegetable production, tree planting and greenhouse expansion.

FUTA's vegetable production centre continues to assist local farmers with modern cultivation methods for F1 species of bell peppers and tomatoes. These improved varieties, developed at the university's Teaching and Research Farm, offer better yield and resilience compared to traditional types.

Growth in Palm Plantation and Greenhouse Facilities

The university has also increased the number of trees in its palm plantation and is advancing construction of new greenhouses to boost productivity. Professor Oladiji assured that the funds would be properly used for their intended purpose, adding that FUTA remains dedicated to supporting Nigeria's agricultural development through research and commercial farming.

Strengthening National Growth Through Agriculture

With this funding, FUTA is expected to expand its reach and deepen its contribution to the agricultural sector. The investment will support sustainable farming models, empower young agricultural entrepreneurs and drive improvement in food production practices. FUTA's achievements reflect a steady effort to align education, research and community service with national goals of food sufficiency.

FUTA's example continues to show how research-based farming can help solve real challenges facing the country's food system. The N1 billion allocation will further enhance this mission, positioning FUTA as a strong partner in Nigeria's pursuit of agricultural growth and self-reliance.

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