KEY POINTS
- Senate passes bill for establishing the Federal University of Agriculture in Osun State.
- Proposed institution aims to boost agricultural growth, research, and innovation.
- The bill has been referred to the Committee on Tertiary Education for further review.
The Nigerian Senate has given swift passage to a bill proposing the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State.
The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, passed its first and second readings in a single session, moving quickly through the legislative process.
University to support agricultural sector growth
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted the importance of the new institution in addressing Nigeria’s agricultural needs. He emphasized the role the university would play in providing specialized education and training, particularly in rural areas, where agriculture forms the backbone of economic activity.
Bamidele stressed that the proposed university would focus on the holistic development of agriculture, equipping students with the skills necessary to advance agricultural growth and generate employment opportunities.
“Agriculture and allied sectors are the largest providers of livelihoods, especially in rural areas, and can significantly contribute to Nigeria’s GDP,” Bamidele said.
According to Punch, he added that the university would serve as a training ground for experts capable of transforming the agricultural sector.
Promoting education and innovation
The proposed institution aims to foster learning opportunities for all, regardless of race, gender, or political belief. Bamidele explained that the university would focus on postgraduate training, research, and innovation, particularly in agricultural science.
He emphasized that the institution would promote practical solutions to challenges facing Nigeria’s agriculture sector, contributing to the nation’s development goals.
“The university will promote sound scientific training as a foundation for advancing agriculture and tropical studies, taking into account indigenous cultures and fostering national unity,” Bamidele noted.
Bamidele also discussed the trend of establishing specialized universities in Nigeria, particularly those focused on science and technology.
He stated that the creation of more agricultural universities is crucial to support the federal government’s efforts to diversify the economy and boost agriculture through its “back to land” policy.
Next steps for the bill
Following debate, the Senate passed the bill for a second reading and referred it to the Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND.
The committee has been tasked with conducting a public hearing and reporting back to the Senate within two weeks.
