TETFund approves N7.5bn research grants for 174 projects

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has allocated N7.5 billion to fund 174 research projects through its 2025 National Research Fund (NRF) grant cycle. This initiative aims to bolster research and innovation within Nigeria's tertiary institutions, positioning research as a key driver for economic transformation, job creation, and national development.

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We believe strongly that if we can use the knowledge in our tertiary institutions and we can harness those intellectual talents and deploy them efficiently, we will be able to better utilise our natural resources.

Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, announced the approval, emphasizing the government's increasing commitment to research and development. He stated that harnessing the intellectual talents within tertiary institutions is crucial for effectively utilizing the nation's natural resources and fostering innovation across vital economic sectors. "We believe strongly that if we can use the knowledge in our tertiary institutions and we can harness those intellectual talents and deploy them efficiently, we will be able to better utilise our natural resources," Echono said.

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The third stage, the shortlisted researchers were invited to Abuja, and they had to do oral presentations to defend their proposals. And at the end of that, we have the eventual selection of the successful research proposals.

The NRF selection process for 2025 was notably rigorous, involving multiple stages of assessment. Applicants initially submitted concept notes, followed by full proposals for those selected. Shortlisted researchers then defended their projects in Abuja before the final 174 grants were approved. The grants, ranging from N13.6 million to N49.97 million each, are distributed across critical areas such as health, agriculture, natural resources, science and engineering, energy, the blue economy, defense technology, and education.

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A total of 174 grants were recommended and approved. And these went to a few single individuals, but the majority of them are research teams that participated in the exercise.

Federal University of Technology, Minna, emerged as the leading institution, securing 18 grants. Federal University of Technology, Owerri, followed with 11 grants, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, received 10. The approved projects are intended to generate new products and services, enhance productivity, and contribute to national prosperity through research-driven advancements.

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The grants range from N13.6m to N49.97m each for the researchers.