Written by: Ochoga Edwin Ochoga,PhD
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) this week hosted its maiden Research and Innovation Fair at the Eagle Square in Abuja. The groundbreaking event, which marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s academic and innovation landscape, was conceived under the visionary leadership of TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono.
The Research and Innovation Fair is designed to encourage and promote research, innovation, and development in Nigerian tertiary institutions, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The program aims to strengthen the synergy between academia and industry, creating solutions to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.
In his opening address, Arc. Sonny Echono emphasized the critical role of research and innovation in driving national development. “This fair is a platform for showcasing the groundbreaking work of our scholars and innovators. Our goal is to foster an ecosystem that thrives on creativity, knowledge, and technological advancement,” he said.
The event brought together researchers, policymakers, students, and representatives from the private sector to engage in interactive sessions, exhibitions, and panel discussions. Among the highlights of the fair were presentations of groundbreaking projects in technology, agriculture, health, and engineering.
President Tinubu, who represented, commended TETFund for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. “This initiative is timely and aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes human capital development and technological advancement as drivers of sustainable growth,” he noted.
Stakeholders lauded the initiative, describing it as a turning point for research in Nigeria. Many expressed optimism that this program would elevate the country’s global standing in academic and technological innovation.
The maiden TETFund Research and Innovation Fair is expected to become an annual event, serving as a platform to foster collaboration and highlight Nigeria’s research potential.
