Six graduates of the University of Ilorin have each been awarded ₦1.5 million by the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATN) for their exceptional contributions to agricultural innovation.
The award was part of the 2025 Graduate Agripreneur Programme (GAP), a joint initiative between the university and BATN Foundation aimed at promoting youth-led agribusiness development in Nigeria.
The winners—Abdulahi Ayomide, Aliu Abdulbasit Olamilekan, Uthman Oladipo, Olorunmaiye Cynthia, Iliyas Elijah Danladi, and John Olumide Adeyemi—were selected following a competitive process that assessed their projects on innovation, sustainability, and practical impact.
Speaking at the award ceremony held at the Faculty of Agriculture, Vice Chancellor Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN) commended the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with BATN Foundation reflects our joint commitment to fostering innovation and empowering young Nigerians. Our graduates have proven themselves as leaders of tomorrow, not just academically, but as problem-solvers.”
BATN Foundation’s General Manager, Mr. Oludare Odusanya, emphasized the organisation’s belief in youth-driven agricultural growth. “These winners represent the bright future of Nigerian agriculture. The University of Ilorin continues to demonstrate it is a breeding ground for innovation and excellence,” he said.
Beyond financial support, the GAP programme offers mentorship and expert guidance to help the awardees scale their agribusiness ideas effectively.
One of the recipients, Olorunmaiye Cynthia, expressed her excitement, saying, “This grant is a stepping stone to fulfilling my dream of transforming agriculture in Nigeria. I’m deeply grateful for the support and opportunity.”
The initiative is a strong push toward increasing youth involvement in agriculture and strengthening food security, positioning young innovators at the forefront of Nigeria’s agribusiness revolution.
