UNN Secures ₦2.5 Billion TETFund Grant for Ultra-Modern Agricultural Research Laboratory and Demonstration Farm

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has officially handed over the project site for the construction of an ultra-modern Research Laboratory and Demonstration Farm valued at ₦2.5 billion, in a major step towards strengthening agricultural innovation and food security research.

The project is funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) following approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and was secured through the efforts of the University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon U. Ortuanya.

The facility is expected to enhance practical agricultural training, agribusiness research and technological innovation within the institution.

During a courtesy visit by an Israeli project execution team on July 13, 2026, Professor Ortuanya described the grant as a reflection of the University's commitment to conducting impactful research that addresses national development challenges.

He said the project would create a link between advanced laboratory research and practical agricultural demonstrations, positioning the University to play a leading role in Nigeria's drive towards sustainable food security and agricultural technology.

Professor Ortuanya also expressed appreciation to TETFund for supporting the University's vision of expanding research and innovation in agriculture.

Following the meeting, the Vice-Chancellor directed the University's Physical Planning Unit to formally hand over the project site to the contractor, Afri-Fruits Limited, an Israeli-managed company.

The official handover took place along the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Road in the presence of key University officials, including the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture.

The Director of the Physical Planning Unit, Dr. Ekwelem Okechukwu, disclosed that the contractor had been directed to commence mobilisation and construction work immediately.

Speaking on behalf of the contractor, the Managing Director of Afri-Fruits Limited, Mr. Reuven Cohen, thanked the University for the opportunity to execute the project and assured the management that construction would be carried out in line with international standards and approved technical specifications to ensure timely completion.

The University Management also pledged its full cooperation and administrative support to facilitate the successful execution of the project.

Upon completion, the Research Laboratory and Demonstration Farm is expected to serve as a leading centre for advanced agricultural research, provide students with practical entrepreneurial and technical skills, and promote collaboration between the University and the global agricultural industry.