The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector by expanding the scope of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria.
Sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the amendment bill proposes the creation of specialised colleges across Nigeria to deepen agricultural innovation, especially in underserved urban and rural areas.
The proposed institutions include veterinary, fisheries, animal health, and land resources colleges spread across Abia, Adamawa, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Sokoto, and Kogi States.
Kalu emphasized that agriculture remains a key pillar of the economy, supporting jobs, food security, and rural development.
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He said the bill is designed to fill critical gaps in agricultural research and education by unlocking local potential and equipping communities with tailored training.
“This isn’t just about building schools,” Kalu said. “It’s about empowering those who feed the nation and investing in regions with untapped agricultural strengths.”
If passed, the bill could mean more opportunities for agripreneurs, youth, and smallholder farmers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
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