By Abbas Nazil
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has described agriculture as the most viable alternative for the diversification of Nigeria’s economy and ensuring a broad-based economic resilience.
Speaking through the Deputy Chief Whip of the House, Ibrahim Isiaka, during a public hearing on 11 agricultural bills at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Abbas observed that the country is still vulnerable due to its over-reliance on oil, stressing that investing in agriculture and agricultural research is not only timely but imperative.
He observed further that global success stories in agricultural transformation, such as Brazil, Vietnam, and Israel, were built on a foundation of strong investment in agricultural research and innovation.
Abbas noted that Nigeria, blessed with vast arable land, a youthful farming population, and rich indigenous knowledge systems, has the potential to replicate and even surpass these achievements if decisive actions are taken.
The Speaker expressed optimism that the proposed bills will strengthen agricultural institutions in Nigeria by giving them a sound legal and operational structure.
According to him, enhanced agricultural research institutions will pave the way for improved practices in crop production, pest control, and climate-smart agriculture.
He further stated that robust extension services are critical in ensuring that breakthroughs in research reach rural farmers and translate into increased productivity and improved rural livelihoods.
Abbas added that building institutional capacity through these bills means investing in the next generation of agronomists, scientists, and agricultural policy experts who will drive innovation and ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
He urged all stakeholders to support the passage of the bills, as they hold the potential to address various challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural sector, including food insecurity and rural underdevelopment.
In his remarks, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture Colleges and Institutions, Hon. Isiaq Akinlade, highlighted the need for more agricultural colleges and research centers in the country, given Nigeria’s rapidly growing population of over 220 million.
He said these institutions are essential for tackling pressing issues such as climate change, insecurity, pest infestations, soil degradation, and lack of skilled agricultural labor.
Akinlade noted that the establishment of more colleges would not only foster specialization and excellence in agricultural disciplines but also create job opportunities for Nigerian youth.
These institutions, the committee chairman said, would act as centers of modern learning, hubs for innovation, and catalysts for rural development.
He emphasized their potential to blend indigenous knowledge with emerging technologies like precision agriculture, biotechnology, and smart irrigation systems, offering farmers and students alike the tools for sustainable agricultural advancement.