President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called for stronger support for agricultural colleges and institutions as part of broader efforts to tackle food insecurity, strengthen food production, and unlock the vast economic potential within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Akpabio made the call at the maiden National Legislative Summit and Expo on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Moniya, Ibadan.
Represented by the Deputy Senate Majority Leader, Senator Oyetola Ashiru, the Senate President emphasized that collaboration, innovation, and strong political will remain critical to overcoming the challenges confronting agriculture in Nigeria.
He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships among key stakeholders across the agricultural sector, noting that Nigeria must embrace innovation, technology-driven farming, and modern agricultural practices comparable to global standards.
According to him, the National Assembly and the executive arm of government remain committed to policies, reforms, and programmes aimed at strengthening agricultural colleges and institutions to support sustainable food security, research, and national development.
Senator Akpabio also encouraged Nigerian youths to take advantage of the enormous opportunities within the agricultural value chain for wealth creation, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. He noted that agriculture remains one of the most viable sectors capable of reducing unemployment, driving economic growth, and improving national productivity when properly harnessed.
Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, described the summit as timely amid growing concerns over food insecurity and the urgent need for skilled manpower within the agricultural sector.
Senator Alli noted that agricultural colleges and institutions must be adequately strengthened to produce competent professionals, encourage research innovation, and develop practical solutions capable of transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. He added that sustained investment in agricultural education, innovation, and research remains essential to achieving national food sufficiency, economic stability, and sustainable development.
