University of Abuja Awards N5.45 Million in Research Grants to Six Students

Six students from the University of Abuja have been awarded N5.45 million in research grants under the university’s Centre for Undergraduate Research (CUR) programme. The announcement was made by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, during the institution’s 6th Undergraduate Research Day, themed “Promoting National Development Through Research.”

Prof. Maikudi emphasized the university’s commitment to nurturing curiosity, creativity, and innovation, likening research to planting seeds that will grow into solutions for real-world challenges.

“As undergraduates, you are the next generation of thought-seekers and change-makers,” she stated, commending the Centre for Undergraduate Research for guiding students toward groundbreaking discoveries.

According to Prof. Taibat Adebukola Atoyebi, the CUR Director, 20 student groups initially expressed interest, 13 teams were shortlisted, and six projects were ultimately selected for funding. These students presented their research proposals and received their grants on Tuesday.

Winning Research Topics

The grant recipients and their areas of study include:

•  Ngutswen Aondonenge Emmanuel (Biological Sciences) – Exploring the medicinal properties of K. pinnata and J. tanjorensis for anaemia and liver health.
•  Isa Iqraam Ozavize (Veterinary Medicine) – Assessing biosafety and waste management in Abuja’s abattoirs.
• Madaki Enyojo Nathan (Microbiology) – Applying vermitechnology (earthworms) for sustainable agriculture and solid waste management.
• Egbeji Paul Owam (Medical Laboratory Science) – Investigating curry leaves’ potential as an antidiabetic remedy.
• Okolie Juliet Ukamaka (Economics) – Using AI and machine learning to study energy consumption in university hostels.
• Ezeadua Valentine Chinonso (Medical Laboratory Science) – Studying the antimicrobial properties of Calopogonium mucunoides and Mitracarpus species against drug-resistant bacteria.

Much like young scientists charting new frontiers, these students are proving that research isn’t just about knowledge, it is about creating real impact.

Stay tuned for more breakthroughs from Nigeria’s young researchers!