The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arch. Sonny Echono, has called for enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces ahead of the upcoming National Research Fair.
During a visit from Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, on Friday in Abuja, Echono expressed gratitude for the military’s sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
“We recognise the military’s strong research component,” Echono noted, urging participation from military personnel at the fair, which aims to transform research findings into practical applications.
He noted that participation will be free for all attendees.
The fair will feature international experts from Israel, the European Union, and Brazil, providing guidance on translating research into commercial products, including patenting processes.
General Musa highlighted the critical role of education in addressing insecurity and illiteracy, stating, “With education, people cannot be enslaved.”
He argued that while kinetic responses are necessary, non-kinetic approaches, particularly education, provide approximately 75% of the solution to Nigeria’s challenges.
He praised TETFund’s ongoing partnerships, including a project with the Nigerian Defence Academy, and assured continued military support for educational initiatives. “Teamwork and collaboration are vital,” he affirmed, recognising the importance of technological innovations in education.
