The Senate has passed for third reading a bill seeking to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State to promote modern farming techniques, boost agricultural productivity and strengthen food production in Nigeria.
The passage of the bill followed the adoption of recommendations contained in a report presented by the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions during plenary on Thursday.
Sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, the proposed institution is expected to promote agricultural education, improve farming practices and facilitate the adoption of modern agricultural technologies among farmers in the area and across the country.
Ndume said the establishment of the college would address persistent challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly the continued reliance on traditional farming methods and the slow adoption of modern technologies.
“One of the fundamental challenges facing agriculture in Nigeria is our continued reliance on crude farming methods.
“We have not made sufficient progress in improving productivity and making farming easier through modern technology,” he said.
The senator explained that the institution, when established, would facilitate the transfer of agricultural knowledge, improved farming techniques, modern technology and better crop varieties to farmers.
He noted that Shani, a local government area in Borno South, was known for agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of rice, tomatoes and onions.
According to him, the area’s proximity to Adamawa and Bauchi states, which also have significant agricultural activities, further underscores its potential to serve as a centre for agricultural education and development.
Expressing satisfaction with the Senate’s passage of the bill, Ndume described the achievement as one of his major accomplishments in the National Assembly, particularly as the current legislative session approaches its conclusion.
“I am excited about this achievement. I consider it one of my lifetime achievements in the National Assembly, especially as we approach the end of our legislative session,” he added.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, commended the committee for its work and Ndume for sponsoring the bill, noting that the proposed institution would contribute to agricultural development in Nigeria.
With its passage by the Senate, the bill is expected to be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence in line with legislative procedures. If approved by both chambers, it will be forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
The proposed Federal College of Agriculture is expected to strengthen agricultural education, promote the adoption of modern farming methods and support efforts to improve food production and agricultural development in Nigeria.
