Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono
By Felix Khanoba
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) have formalised a new partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to strengthen research, spur innovation and improve graduate employability.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, commended the collaboration, noting that it aligns with the federal government’s push for a skills-driven and innovative economy.
“We welcome you to your fund, as well as all the excellent initiatives that have brought us together. Today’s signing is the culmination of long-standing efforts between TETFUND and NACCIMA.
“This collaboration focuses on research, innovation, and producing graduates fit for purpose, ready to contribute effectively to industry.
“It is central to the triple helix model we have championed and supports the President’s goal of harnessing Nigeria’s human and material resources for national development,” he added.
According to the MOU, both organisations will jointly pursue key goals such as promoting research that responds to industrial and societal demands, enabling commercialisation of research work, strengthening skills development and entrepreneurship, driving investment between academia and industry, supporting policy engagement, and boosting job creation and startup growth.
Echono emphasized the broader economic benefits of the initiative, stressing that “if we harness the talent of our youths and equip them with critical thinking, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills, we can not only advance Nigeria’s economy but also address global skills gaps.”
On his part, NACCIMA’s National President, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, also underscored the value of closer ties between industry and academia. He pointed out advantages for both parties including better access to private-sector expertise, opportunities for industry-aligned research, internships, and stronger pathways for turning innovations into commercial products.
“Development must be driven by knowledge, innovation, skills, enterprise, and strong industry-education partnerships. This MOU provides a bridge for graduates to gain practical skills and for research institutions to commercialise knowledge and contribute to national productivity.
“For the business community, this partnership will guide research priorities towards industry needs, build a more competent workforce, and ultimately enhance productivity, competitiveness, and investment,” he said.
He added that the partnership supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which has deepened TETFund’s impact through improved funding systems, upgraded research facilities, and emphasis on technology-driven learning.
“This partnership reinforces the federal government’s commitment to an education sector that is innovative, industry-aligned, and globally competitive,” Ibrahim added.
He described the agreement as the beginning of a long-term effort to build stronger links between education and industry, raise national competitiveness, and expand opportunities for young Nigerians and businesses.
