"A groundbreaking moment unfolded in September 2020 as Unigold Foods Ltd and the University of Benin officially entered into a partnership through the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This event, filled with excitement and a shared sense of purpose, marked the beginning of an ambitious collaboration to establish a state-of-the-art poultry farm within the university premises."

The Event Highlights The ceremony, held on the University of Benin campus, was attended by key representatives from both organizations. The university management, led by its Vice-Chancellor, and top officials from Unigold Foods, including senior executives and project leads, were present to formalize the partnership. The atmosphere was one of optimism and mutual respect, underscoring the shared commitment to driving agricultural innovation and development.

Photos from the event captured the camaraderie between the two teams, showcasing smiles, handshakes, and the symbolic signing of the agreement. The signing was followed by remarks from the leaders of both organizations, emphasizing the significance of this collaboration.
The Vision Behind the MOU The partnership aims to establish a modern poultry farm that will serve as a model of excellence in agricultural practices. The project is designed with several key objectives in mind: Advancing Agricultural Research and Innovation By integrating cutting-edge technologies into poultry farming, the project will provide a platform for research and innovation. The University of Benin’s faculty and students will have access to real-time data, modern farming equipment, and practical learning opportunities, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Empowering Students and Faculty This partnership is poised to create a hub for learning and skill acquisition, empowering students with hands-on experience in poultry farming, agribusiness, and sustainable agricultural practices. Faculty members will also benefit from access to modern farming tools and collaboration opportunities with Unigold Foods’ experts. Promoting Food Security and Sustainability The poultry farm is set to contribute to food security by increasing the availability of high-quality poultry products. Additionally, it will implement sustainable farming practices that minimize environmental impact and promote long-term agricultural growth. Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration The partnership represents a significant step in bridging the gap between academia and industry. Unigold Foods brings its expertise in integrated poultry farming, while the University of Benin offers a wealth of academic knowledge and research capabilities. Together, they aim to set a benchmark for successful industry-academia collaborations in Nigeria.
Why This Partnership Matters This MOU is more than just an agreement—it is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving progress. The initiative reflects Unigold Foods’ commitment to supporting education and fostering innovation while aligning with the University of Benin’s vision to lead in impactful research and development. The poultry farm is expected to create numerous benefits, including: Job Creation: The project will generate employment opportunities for students, graduates, and local communities. Economic Growth: By producing high-quality poultry products, the farm will contribute to the local and national economy. Capacity Building: The partnership will enhance the skills and knowledge of everyone involved, creating a ripple effect of expertise in the agricultural sector.
Looking Ahead As the partnership moves forward, both organizations are committed to transparency and regular updates about the project’s progress. The establishment of the poultry farm is just the beginning, with long-term plans for expansion and diversification into other agricultural ventures already in discussion. The signing of the MOU has set the stage for a transformative journey that will not only benefit the stakeholders involved but also have a far-reaching impact on Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.