In a strategic move to bolster innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigerian tertiary institutions, the Federal Government has approved the allocation of funds to 15 TETFund beneficiary institutions for the establishment of cutting-edge innovation hubs and entrepreneurship centres.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of research outputs while fostering technology-driven solutions across the country.
Each innovation hub will feature Core Labs and Workstations, including facilities for Electronics, 3D Printing, Laser Technology, Product Design, Robotics and Coding, Artificial Intelligence (AI), among others. These multidisciplinary centres are tailored to meet the specific research and development needs of each institution, while also serving as catalysts for job creation and industrial growth.
According to the approved funding breakdown, three universities will receive N1 billion each, while the remaining polytechnics and colleges of education will each receive N750 million.
The 15 benefiting institutions and their allocations are as follows:
- Federal University Dutse – N1 billion
- University of Uyo – N1 billion
- University of Ibadan – N1 billion
- Federal Polytechnic Bida – N750 million
- Taraba State Polytechnic, Jalingo – N750 million
- Adamawa State Polytechnic, Yola – N750 million
- Nuhu Bamali Polytechnic, Zuru – N750 million
- Kano State Polytechnic, Kano – N750 million
- Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana – N750 million
- Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State – N750 million
- Bayelsa State Polytechnic, Aleibiri – N750 million
- Federal Polytechnic, Ede – N750 million
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo – N750 million
- College of Education (Technical), Kabba – N750 million
- Enugu State College of Education (Technical) – N750 million
The FG says the project will not only enhance institutional capacity for innovation but also create a pipeline for start-up incubation and support Nigeria’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy.