FG Pledges Support for Agricultural Programmes in Nigerian Universities
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi has pledged the Ministry’s support for agricultural and infrastructure development at the Federal University of Education, Kontagora (FUEK), Niger State, and other tertiary institutions nationwide. This aims to boost food security, reduce poverty, and drive economic growth.
The Minister stated this during a courtesy visit by the University’s delegation led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Haruna at the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro – Pocket (NAGS – AP) office in Abuja, recently.
He noted that agricultural development support and collaboration with the Federal University of Education would focus on practical, hands-on experience, and entrepreneurship which is not only profitable for students but would also foster a new generation of Agripreneurs.
Sen. Abdullahi urged the Institution to focus on smart agriculture business, using digital technology, data analytics to boost efficiency, profitability, and sustainability so as to move beyond traditional farming to optimizing inputs and improving yields through precision management, thus, creating a data-driven, connected food system from farm to production.
He highlighted that agriculture teachers were once highly respected, noting that their numbers have been dwindling. This he said, has led to the establishment of the Young Farmers Club (YFC), a youth-focused organization that equips young people with practical skills, modern techniques, and leadership training to make farming appealing while also promoting food security. The club aims to foster self-reliance, building on initiatives launched by the First Lady to boost youth involvement in farming as a viable career.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Education, Kotangora, Prof. Faruk Haruna requested for the establishment of agro-processing, value addition centers for training and research, as well as support for modern farm machinery, renewable energy, cold rooms, greenhouses and irrigation facilities.
In a statement by Ogbuagu Chika, a principal Information Officer with the Agric Ministry, he commended the Minister for sponsoring the bill, which led to the establishment of the University, while serving as Senator for Niger North during the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.
