TETFund Monitoring Team Commends FUTA’s Research Excellence During Verification Visit
The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has earned commendation from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Monitoring and Verification Team for its effective implementation of research projects funded under the Batch 8 (2021) National Research Fund (NRF) Grant Cycle.
The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has earned commendation from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Monitoring and Verification Team for its effective implementation of research projects funded under the Batch 8 (2021) National Research Fund (NRF) Grant Cycle.
The three-man team, led by former Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Prof. Lawal Bilbis, included former Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Ndowa Lale, and the team’s secretary, Mr. Kasali. They were received by FUTA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, where they outlined the objective of the visit — to evaluate project execution, ensure alignment with approved funding, and verify research goals.

The team praised FUTA for its strong record in attracting and executing research grants and expressed confidence in productive engagements with the various project teams.
Projects Evaluated
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Development of Polymer-Soilcrete Blocks and Pozzolanic Cement Concrete for Integrated and Sustainable Mass Housing in Nigeria
Principal Investigator: Prof. C. M. Ikumapayi -
Sustainable Blue Economy in the Coastal Areas of Nigeria Using Livelihood Diversification Strategy
Principal Investigator: Dr. O. A. Thompson -
Inventory, Biochemical Characterization, Processing, Utilization, and Marketing of Some Forest-Derived Edible Fruits, Leaves, and Mushrooms in Nigeria
Principal Investigator: Prof. A. A. Badejo -
Development of a Ballasted Track Monitoring System under Operating Conditions
Principal Investigator: Prof. J. O. Afolayan
The monitoring exercise, coordinated by FUTA’s Director of the Centre for Research and Development (CERAD), Prof. Kenneth Alaneme, included on-site inspections of project locations, equipment, and facilities. Each research group presented detailed progress reports, highlighted milestones achieved, and addressed questions from the TETFund officials.
Following the inspection, the team lauded FUTA’s commitment to quality control, internal monitoring, and transparent reporting, noting that the university’s approach aligns with global best practices. They encouraged the institution to sustain its supportive environment for research, stressing that the evaluated projects have significant potential for national impact.
In her response, Prof. Oladiji reaffirmed FUTA’s dedication to innovation, accountability, and societal advancement, adding that the university’s track record in research grant utilization serves as a benchmark for other institutions.
With this visit, all 20 research projects won by FUTA under the 2021 TETFund NRF Grant Cycle have now undergone monitoring and verification.