FUNAAB Graduates Receive N9m Agribusiness Boost from BATNF

Six graduates of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) have received a total grant of N9 million from the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) to support their agribusiness ventures, in a move aimed at strengthening youth-driven agricultural entrepreneurship and innovation.

The grants, valued at N1.5 million each, were presented on Monday, April 28, 2026, during the Graduate Agripreneurship Pitch Programme, where shortlisted applicants showcased business ideas focused on sustainable agricultural development.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor of FUNAAB, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo, described the partnership between the University and BATNF as impactful and results-oriented. He noted that the continuation of the initiative reflects the responsible utilisation of previous grants by earlier beneficiaries.

According to him, the University remains committed to strengthening practical agriculture and entrepreneurship among students and graduates. He revealed that the institution recently committed N20 million to support students involved in practical farming activities across FUNAAB farms.

Prof. Dairo urged participants to remain innovative, realistic, and strategic in their business planning, while stressing that the grants should be channelled strictly into productive agribusiness ventures.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, represented by the Director of the Centre for Community-Based Farming Scheme (COBFAS), Prof. Dare Akerele, commended BATNF for sustaining its investment in youth empowerment and agricultural enterprise development.

He noted that initiatives of this nature are crucial in tackling unemployment while positioning agriculture as a viable economic driver for young Nigerians.

The General Manager of BATNF, Mr. Oludare Odusanya, explained that six successful beneficiaries emerged from twelve shortlisted applicants after a competitive pitching process. He added that future expansion of the programme would depend largely on the quality of ideas and the impact generated by beneficiaries.

The event concluded with the formal presentation of cheques to the selected graduate agripreneurs, reinforcing FUNAAB’s growing reputation as a hub for agricultural innovation, enterprise development, and sustainable youth empowerment.