The British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), in collaboration with the University of Ilorin, has taken a significant stride in fostering agricultural entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth. Through the 2025 Graduate Agripreneur Programme (GAP), six exceptional graduates have been awarded a total of N9 million in grant funding to cultivate their innovative agribusiness ventures. This initiative underscores BATNF’s commitment to empowering young visionaries who possess the potential to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and contribute to the nation’s food security. The partnership between BATNF and the University of Ilorin reflects a shared dedication to nurturing talent, driving innovation, and promoting sustainable development within the agricultural sector.
The GAP grant recipients, Abdulahi Ayomide, Aliu Olamilekan, Uthman Oladipo, Olorunmaiye Cynthia, Iliyas Elijah Danladi, and John Olumide Adeyemi, represent a diverse range of agricultural pursuits, each embodying the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking that the programme seeks to cultivate. With N1.5 million in funding allocated to each awardee, these young agripreneurs are poised to transform their visionary ideas into tangible realities, contributing to the growth and advancement of Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The selection process emphasized originality, sustainability, and real-world impact, ensuring that the chosen projects hold the potential for significant and lasting contributions to the agricultural landscape.
The award ceremony, held at the University of Ilorin’s Faculty of Agriculture, was attended by prominent figures within the university community, signifying the institution’s strong commitment to supporting the initiative. Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), the Vice-Chancellor, lauded the partnership with BATNF as a testament to their shared vision of youth empowerment and national development. He expressed pride in the achievements of the awardees, highlighting their innovative spirit and potential to make a meaningful impact on the agricultural sector. The presence of other key university officials underscored the institution’s collective support for the program and its commitment to fostering entrepreneurial endeavors among its students.
The GAP initiative extends beyond mere financial support, encompassing a comprehensive program of mentorship and long-term guidance from seasoned agricultural and business experts. This holistic approach ensures that the recipients are equipped not only with the necessary capital but also with the knowledge, skills, and industry connections to navigate the challenges of building successful and sustainable agribusinesses. This mentorship component is crucial in nurturing the entrepreneurial journey of the awardees, providing them with valuable insights and support to overcome hurdles and maximize their potential for success.
Olorunmaiye Cynthia, one of the grant recipients, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the transformative potential of the funding. She viewed the grant not just as financial assistance but as a catalyst for her broader vision of revolutionizing agriculture in Nigeria. This sentiment reflects the empowering nature of the GAP initiative, which goes beyond providing financial resources to ignite passion, foster innovation, and cultivate a sense of purpose among young agripreneurs. The program aims to empower a new generation of agricultural leaders who are committed to driving positive change within the sector.
The GAP initiative is a crucial component of BATNF’s broader strategy to collaborate with universities and key stakeholders in promoting agribusiness and food security across Nigeria. By investing in the potential of young agripreneurs, BATNF is contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of the agricultural sector. This strategic approach recognizes the importance of nurturing young talent and supporting innovative solutions to address the challenges facing Nigerian agriculture. The program serves as a model for public-private partnerships that can effectively drive positive change and contribute to a more secure and sustainable food future for Nigeria. Through this initiative, BATNF is demonstrating its commitment to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders and fostering a thriving agricultural ecosystem in Nigeria.
