FUNAAB Researchers Secure Patent for Eco-Friendly Nano-Pesticide Innovation

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has secured a patent for an environmentally friendly nano-pesticide developed by a team of its researchers, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s agricultural research and innovation drive.

The innovation, branded Tripleshield Agro, recently received patent approval.

The development was formally presented to the university management during a product presentation ceremony held on February 10, 2026. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Olusegun Idowu, commended the research team led by Professor Akinola Popoola for the achievement. He stressed the importance of protecting intellectual property, urging researchers to exercise caution in sharing technical details publicly and to avoid agreements that could undermine ownership rights or future commercialisation opportunities.

The university management reaffirmed its readiness to support further development of the innovation through large-scale field trials, farmer engagement programmes, and eventual commercialisation efforts. Emphasis was also placed on safeguarding proprietary knowledge while encouraging structured collaborations capable of delivering long-term value.

Explaining the motivation behind the innovation, the research team noted that the product was developed in response to growing concerns over the environmental and health risks associated with conventional chemical pesticides. The team observed that excessive and poorly regulated pesticide use has contributed to environmental pollution, health challenges, and contamination of water sources.

The nano-pesticide applies nanotechnology to deliver active ingredients directly to target organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and insects, thereby reducing wastage and improving efficiency compared to conventional application methods. According to the researchers, the product was produced using green synthesis techniques, relying largely on neem-based materials while minimising the use of potentially harmful substances to reduce ecological risks.

A highlight of the ceremony was the formal presentation of the Certificate of Registration of Patent to the Vice-Chancellor.

Dignitaries present included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Professor Olawale Dairo; Dean, College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT), Professor Bolarinwa Senjobi; and the Acting Director, Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Dr. Oluwagbemiga Adeleye. Members of the research team, including Dr. Caroline Filani and Dr. Chioma Adekunle, were also in attendance.

The research team further gained national recognition after emerging among the top three institutions with the best pitch decks at the 2025 closing ceremony of the TETFund TETFAIRINNOV8 Programme.