On Wednesday, the Senate swiftly passed a bill proposing the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State. This expeditious approval highlights the importance the legislative body places on advancing agricultural education and addressing the sector’s growing needs.
Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who sponsored the Executive Bill, emphasized that the new university would focus on the holistic development of agriculture and tropical studies. According to Bamidele, the institution will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to boost agricultural growth, increase farmers’ incomes, and create more employment opportunities in the sector.
During the session, the Senate passed the bill for both its first and second readings in under an hour, reflecting its urgency. Bamidele, in his lead debate, called the establishment of the university a significant step toward meeting the educational needs of the nation. He stressed that the institution would serve as a training ground for agricultural experts, helping Nigeria address its food security challenges while promoting learning for all individuals, irrespective of race, creed, gender, or political belief.
Bamidele also pointed out the rising trend of specialized universities in Nigeria, particularly those focused on science and technology, and argued for the necessity of expanding the number of agricultural institutions. He added that this university would support the federal government’s “back to land” policy, which is aimed at diversifying the national economy through agriculture.
Following the debate, the Senate passed the bill for a second reading and referred it to the Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND. The committee has been tasked with conducting a public hearing and submitting its report within two weeks. Bamidele further underscored the potential of the university to enhance postgraduate training, research, and innovation, which would lead to the better utilization and conservation of Nigeria’s agricultural resources.
