UNILAG Students Win Debut Research Pitch Prize at Aquaculture Roadmap Conference
Students from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have made waves by winning the inaugural Student Research Pitch Competition at the Nigeria Aquaculture Roadmap Conference. Their project centered on sustainable aquaponics systems using catfish and vegetables, earning them the top prize and recognition from industry stakeholders.
Quick Insight: The win highlights UNILAG’s strength in research innovation and its commitment to finding sustainable solutions in aquaculture and food security.
1. The Winning Team & Project
The team consisted of eight final-year students from the Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture: Shobowale Inumidun Precious, Odunaiya Deborah, Godday Esther, Mukolu Ekene Munachi, Ogunbekun Olaoluwa Olukoya, Egbuna Chinelo, Sheriff Safiyyah, and Ezinne Ogbu.
Their research, titled **“Enhancing Aquaculture Sustainability through Integrated Aquaponics: Productivity of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Vegetables in Recirculating Systems”**, addressed cost, water use, and sustainability challenges in aquaculture.
2. Prize & Additional Experience
The winning project was awarded **₦500,000** in research funding.
The team also participated in vocational training by Mosneri Foods, learning about value-addition techniques, such as making catfish cookies.
3. Conference & Impact
The event was the **2025 Nigeria Aquaculture Roadmap Conference**, held at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo Campus, from September 22 to 25.
The conference theme was *“Shaping the Future of Aquaculture in Nigeria”* and featured sessions on feed alternatives, climate-smart aquaculture practices, and blue economy trends.
Final Thoughts
This achievement by UNILAG students underscores the value of research-led education and innovation. Their project could serve as a model for sustainable aquaculture practices across Nigeria.
Tip: If you’re a student or researcher in aquaculture or environmental sciences, this framework (aquaponics + resource efficiency) is gaining traction—consider exploring similar projects for grant opportunities.
