The Supply Chain Research and Innovation Hub (SCRiH) and the University of Abuja have taken a major step toward strengthening Nigeria's agricultural research ecosystem with the signing of a lease agreement for the establishment of the National Agricultural Reference Laboratory and Centre of Excellence.

The agreement officially kick-starts the implementation phase of the project, following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both organisations in 2025. With the legal framework now in place, work will move into detailed design, site preparation and construction of the facility, which is expected to emerge as one of Africa's leading hubs for agricultural research, food safety and scientific innovation.

The partners said the centre is designed to improve Nigeria's capacity in agricultural science while supporting efforts to enhance food security, strengthen research capabilities and promote sustainable development.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Founder of SCRiH, Adebayo Adeleke, described the agreement as a significant milestone that moves the initiative from the planning stage to full implementation.

"Our vision is to build a national institution where science, innovation and education come together to advance food security, strengthen agricultural competitiveness and support sustainable development across Africa."

According to the organisers, the National Agricultural Reference Laboratory and Centre of Excellence will house state-of-the-art laboratory facilities dedicated to agricultural science, food safety, biotechnology, biosecurity and environmental monitoring.

L-R: Founder, Supply Chain Research and Innovation Hub, Adebayo Adeleke; Vice-Chancellor, University of Abuja, Prof. Hakeem Babatunde; Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Abuja, Prof. Oyerinde Abolade Akeem, and Executive Director, Nigeria Food Security Project, Ajibola Oladiipo, during the signing of the lease agreement for the establishment of Nigeria's National Agricultural Reference Laboratory at the University of Abuja…recently
Beyond laboratory services, the centre is expected to serve as a platform for cutting-edge scientific research, capacity building and the training of future scientists and researchers. It will also encourage collaboration between universities, government agencies, private sector organisations and international research institutions.

The project is being developed in partnership with the University of Abuja under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, and will be executed through a consortium of Nigerian and international organisations with expertise in scientific infrastructure, engineering and laboratory development.

As part of the implementation plan, Spacecube Construction Limited will oversee the architectural design and construction of the facility, while Gobiosis International (Pty) Ltd and EMERA Consultants Ltd will coordinate the laboratory infrastructure.

The project will also benefit from technical support provided by global technology partners, including Siemens, Köttermann GmbH of Germany and H. Ludi + Co. AG of Switzerland, reflecting its ambition to deliver a world-class research and innovation centre capable of supporting Nigeria's agricultural transformation and contributing to scientific advancement across the African continent.