Emmanuel Abraham, Chairman of Topfaith University in Mkpatak, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has called on the federal government to extend Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) grants to private universities.
During a media interaction in his office on Tuesday, Abraham argued that including private institutions in TETFund grants would enhance research efforts and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s technological growth. He emphasized that if the government is truly committed to developing human capital, it must also support private research initiatives.
He expressed concern that private universities are often excluded from TETFund support, a practice he believes undermines the country’s progress in science, technology, and national development.
“In other countries, universities serve as key research hubs for national infrastructure, scientific advancement, and social innovation,” he noted. “Nigeria can adopt a similar model by selecting private universities based on their area of expertise and funding relevant research projects.”
Abraham recommended that the government develop clear assessment criteria to identify eligible private institutions for inclusion in the TETFund budget, especially for establishing research laboratories.
He clarified that his appeal was not to make private universities reliant on government funding, but rather to promote a national investment in knowledge that includes all capable institutions, regardless of ownership.
“The National Universities Commission (NUC) and TETFund are aware of the research capabilities of various universities. This knowledge should guide the selection of schools for targeted research funding,” he added.
Highlighting Topfaith University’s unique potential, Abraham pointed out that the institution is situated in a region rich in oil palm resources. He proposed that TETFund could support the university with a specialized laboratory to enhance research in oil palm production through its Biotechnology program.
He revealed that the university is already engaged in extensive research on palm oil and runs a palm seedlings multiplication center as part of its entrepreneurship training. “We have the natural resources. Now we must elevate palm oil production through scientific research, technological innovation, and digital education,” he concluded.