News
BATN Foundation Awards N6 Million Grants to Youth Agripreneurs
The BATN Foundation has awarded grants of N1.5 million each to four Graduate Agripreneurs from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), totaling N6 million. The awards were presented during the culmination of Phase III of the FUNAAB-BATN Foundation Graduate Agripreneurs Programme, held on May 23, 2024, at the College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD).
Program Overview
The Graduate Agripreneur Program aims to empower young minds by engaging post-graduate and undergraduate students in agriculture. This initiative provides access to grants, skills development, and mentorship, equipping participants with the knowledge and drive to succeed. The program seeks to drive innovation, sustainability, and food security in Nigeria by fostering a new generation of skilled and passionate agricultural leaders.
Selection Process and Winners
After a rigorous selection process, nine applicants with the most compelling documentation and business plans were shortlisted. Four outstanding Agripreneurs were ultimately awarded the grants:
– Miss Oluwafunmilayo Adegboyega – Broiler Production
– Mr. Oluwaseun Akosile – Broiler Production
– Mr. Johnson Fashina – Catfish Farming
– Mr. Oluwayomi Olajide – Catfish Farming
Other notable participants included Akeem Adeyemi, Moses Abayomi, Akinola Usman, and Bolaji Ololade.
Event Highlights
At the event, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) Prof. Kola Adebayo, representing Vice-Chancellor Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, praised the competitive nature of the selection process and highlighted BATN Foundation’s unwavering support. Prof. Kehinde emphasized the meticulous evaluation based on entrepreneurial skills, innovation, business relevance, financial projections, and presentation skills.
Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of BATN Foundation, outlined the criteria for evaluation, which included the Agripreneurs’ capacity, evidence of entrepreneurial skills, and the uniqueness and logic of their business plans. He expressed pride in supporting these promising Agripreneurs and highlighted their potential contribution to the agricultural sector and the broader economy.
Miss Aderanti Oni, a recipient of the Phase II grant for Broiler Production, shared her inspiring success story, attributing her passion for a healthy nation to her dedication to agriculture. She has completed three production cycles since receiving the grant.
Distinguished Panel of Judges
The panel of judges included distinguished university and BATN Foundation officials:
– Mr. Adewusi Agbotoba, representative of the Acting Registrar and the Council Affairs Officer
– Mrs. Comfort Dasaolu, representative of the Acting Bursar
– Prof. Emmanuel Fakoya, Dean, COLAMRUD
– Prof. Jonathan Atungwu, Dean, College of Plant Science and Crop Production (COLPLANT)
– Dr. Akeem Makinde, Deputy Dean, College of Environmental Resources Management (COLERM)
– Prof. Petra Abdulsalam-Saghir, Head of Department, Agricultural Extension and Rural Development (AERD)
– Dr. Azeez Yusuf, Coordinator of the FUNAAB-BATN Foundation project
– Mrs. Folasade Giwa, Principal Assistant Registrar, DVCD’s Office
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the BATN Foundation remains committed to expanding its reach and impact through strategic partnerships and collaborations with educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and the government. By scaling up its initiatives, the Foundation aims to create more opportunities for young agripreneurs across Nigeria, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
Business
Aliko Dangote Reacts to Reports that Donald Trump Is Unhappy With the Launch Of Dangote Refinery (Video)
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Refinery, has denied claims that U.S. President Donald Trump is displeased with the launch of the $20 billion refinery.
There were claims on social media suggesting that Trump’s recent threat to attack certain locations in Nigeria could be linked to Africa’s largest refinery.
Trump had threatened to strike terrorists targeting Christians at various locations in Nigeria, which led to the spread of various propaganda and social media reactions.
Addressing the press, Dangote said that the USA has been a major supplier of crude to the refinery, adding that the talk about Trump being angry over its establishment “does not hold water.”
“The US has been one of our major suppliers of crude, which is why when someone says Trump is not happy with our refinery, it’s not true,” he said.
“Trump is more than happy with our refinery, because on average for a year, we do not buy more than 100 million barrels from the US.”
Dangote also said Nigerians now have the option of buying high-quality, locally refined petrol at a cheaper price or opting for blended imported fuel at a higher cost.
Dangote stated that fuel importers could continue to incur losses while Nigerians enjoy more affordable petrol prices.
According to him, the availability of locally refined petrol gives consumers a clear choice between quality fuel sold at a lower rate and blended premium motor spirit (PMS) sold at higher prices by importers.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSR-Ew5glpI/?igsh=MWxwYWJxcXhoYm51MQ==
News
Abia Unveils State-Owned Electric Bus Transport Scheme
The Abia State Government has announced plans to roll out a state-owned electric bus transport scheme, marking a major step toward modern, clean and efficient public transportation in the state.
The initiative, part of the government’s broader urban renewal and green mobility agenda, is designed to ease traffic congestion, reduce transportation costs for residents, and cut carbon emissions. The electric buses will operate on key routes across major cities, including Umuahia and Aba, offering commuters a safer, quieter and more comfortable travel experience.
Governor Alex Otti has emphasized that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life for Abia residents. According to the government, a number of electric buses have already been procured, while supporting infrastructure such as charging stations and modern bus terminals is being developed to ensure smooth operations.
Beyond environmental benefits, the scheme is expected to create jobs, improve urban mobility, and set a new standard for public transportation management in the state. Officials say the buses will be professionally managed under a state-owned structure to ensure efficiency, affordability and long-term sustainability.
With this move, Abia State joins a growing number of forward-looking governments embracing clean energy solutions, reinforcing its position as a state committed to innovation, environmental responsibility and people centred governance.
News
NIGERIA POLICE FORCE ANNOUNCES RESUMPTION OF ENFORCEMENT OF TINTED GLASS PERMIT
The Nigeria Police Force wishes to inform the general public of the planned resumption of the enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit policy pending the final determination of the matter currently before the court. This decision follows a careful review of emerging security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of all citizens.
It is important to clarify that at no point did the court restrain the Nigeria Police Force from enforcing the provisions of the law regarding the use of tinted glass on vehicles. Nonetheless, in the spirit of responsibility, transparency, and public convenience, the Force suspended enforcement to allow motorists ample opportunity to regularise their documentation and complete the registration process without pressure.
Recent trends, however, reveal a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass. Some individuals and organised criminal groups have exploited this gap to conceal their identities and facilitate crimes ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping and other violent crimes. In view of this, the Nigeria Police Force has found it both necessary and urgent to resume full enforcement as a proactive measure to safeguard our communities. Consequently, enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit will resume on 2nd January, 2026.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, assures the public that the renewed enforcement will be carried out with utmost professionalism, respect for the rights of citizens, and in accordance with extant laws. He adds that the Force remains committed to promoting public safety and upholding the rule of law while working collaboratively with all stakeholders to keep Nigeria secure.
Meanwhile, motorists who require the Tinted Glass Permit are encouraged to apply through the approved channels and ensure that their vehicles comply with legal procedures.
CSP FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
15th December, 2025
-
Business1 year ago
US court acquits Air Peace boss, slams Mayfield $4000 fine
-
Trending1 year agoNYA demands release of ‘abducted’ Imo chairman, preaches good governance
-
Politics1 year agoMexico’s new president causes concern just weeks before the US elections
-
Politics1 year agoPutin invites 20 world leaders
-
Politics1 year agoRussia bans imports of agro-products from Kazakhstan after refusal to join BRICS
-
Entertainment1 year ago
Bobrisky falls ill in police custody, rushed to hospital
-
Entertainment1 year ago
Bobrisky transferred from Immigration to FCID, spends night behind bars
-
Education1 year ago
GOVERNOR FUBARA APPOINTS COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR KEN SARO-WIWA POLYTECHNIC BORI
