Editor
…Set to Serve as a Training Hub for Agricultural Development in Nigeria
By Fatima Saka
A bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Agriculture, Kura, Kano State, passed its second reading in the Senate on Tuesday.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Rufai Hanga (NNPP, Kano Central), was first introduced on October 23, 2024.
Leading the debate on the bill, Senator Hanga described it as a strategic initiative to address the educational needs of Kano State while fostering agricultural development across Nigeria.
“Agriculture, along with its allied sectors, is undeniably the largest provider of livelihoods, especially in rural areas, and holds the potential to significantly contribute to the nation’s GDP,” he said.
He emphasized that rising demand for agricultural products, driven by population growth, higher per capita income, and increasing industrial needs, underscores the importance of investing in agricultural education and innovation.
When established, the Federal University of Agriculture, Kura, will focus on advancing agricultural knowledge, education, and skills, with a forward-looking vision to accelerate agricultural growth, increase farmers’ income, and generate employment in the sector.
Strategic Location
Highlighting the choice of Kura as the university’s location, Senator Hanga noted its significance as a major agricultural hub in Kano State. “The establishment of this university will not only enhance the Federal Government’s presence in the area but also restore and strengthen citizens’ sense of belonging to the nation,” he stated.
Objectives of the Bill
The proposed institution aims to:
1. Promote learning opportunities for all, regardless of race, creed, gender, or political affiliation.
2. Offer academic and professional programs, including diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, with a focus on agriculture, agricultural engineering, and allied disciplines.
3. Train socially responsible individuals capable of advancing agricultural knowledge and contributing to scientific innovation in the field.
4. Act as a catalyst for economic growth by leveraging Nigeria’s agricultural, natural, and human resources through research and innovation.
Regional and National Impact
Senator Hanga underscored the broader implications of the bill, noting that the university will support federal agricultural policies while driving development in Kano State and neighboring states such as Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi, and Kaduna. He added that its impact will extend beyond Nigeria to West Africa, transforming agriculture and fostering regional collaboration.
The Senate’s approval of the bill represents a significant step toward establishing an institution that will play a pivotal role in modernizing agriculture and addressing the sector’s challenges in Nigeria.
