The BATN Foundation, through its flagship Graduate Agripreneur Programme (GAP), has shown keen interest to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders through addition of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MoUAU) to its growing partners network.

At an award and pitch ceremony held in the school’s premises recently, four outstanding graduates: Ibiam Chioma, Ugwu Chibuzor, Uwa Chukwuemeka, and Ngama Vivian from MoUAU were awarded agribusiness grants under the GAP initiative. 

The four newly inducted MoUAU beneficiaries join a growing network of GAP alumni who are redefining agribusiness across Nigeria, creating jobs, boosting food production, and demonstrating the transformative power of youth-led agriculture.

“Our commitment is not just to provide grants, but to create platforms where youths in agriculture can thrive, innovate, and lead transformation within the sector,” said Oludare Odusanya, general manager of the BATN Foundation in a statement.

“With over 22 graduates empowered through GAP in 2025 alone, we are proud to be nurturing the next generation of agribusiness champions.” 

The GAP initiative, launched to create pathways for young graduates in agriculture, has already made significant impact in institutions such as the University of Ibadan, University of Ilorin, and the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. 

And with MoUAU now on board, the foundation continues to build a pipeline of agripreneurs equipped with funding, mentorship, and enterprise development skills.

He explained that the GAP initiative is more than a grant; it’s a launchpad for young agripreneurs to create viable, scalable businesses that contribute to Nigeria’s food security and economic resilience. “We are proud to collaborate with MoUAU and celebrate the success of these driven graduates.”

Odusanya further said GAP is more than a grant programme. But according to him, it is a strategic platform to build a pipeline of job creators and solution builders capable of addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. 

“By equipping young graduates with capital, mentoring, and business support, the Foundation demonstrates its enduring commitment to shaping a generation ready to lead with integrity, innovation, and impact.”

As the initiative continues to expand, the foundation reiterates its resolve to empower even more graduates, ensuring that young Nigerians are not only educated but also equipped to create sustainable livelihoods and drive inclusive growth for the nation.