The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has vowed to take agriculture to universities in the country.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, made the vow while disclosing that the government has resolved to support agricultural infrastructure development in federal tertiary institutions in country.
He said this is geared towards achieving food security, poverty reduction and economic growth.
Abdullahi spoke during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Federal University of Education Kontagora, Niger State, on Thursday.
The delegation was led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Haruna to the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro – Pocket (NAGS – AP) office in Abuja.
Abdullahi stated that agricultural development support and collaboration with the Federal University of Education would focus on practical, hands-on experience, and entrepreneurship profitable for students as well as foster a new generation of agripreneurs.
He advised that the institution should focus on ‘’smart agriculture business, uses digital technology, data analytics to boost efficiency, profitability, and sustainability, moving beyond traditional farming to optimize inputs and improve yields through precision management, creating a data-driven, connected food system from farm to production”.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Federal University of Education, Kotangora, Prof. Faruk Haruna, revealed that the minister sponsored the bill establishing the university while serving as senator for Niger North and it was assented to by former President Muhammadu Buhari on Dec. 31, 2021.
He 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.