By Fatima Saka
The Senate has passed a bill to establish the Federal University of Agriculture Maritime studies, Mokwa, Niger state, which seeks to promote science based research in all fields of agriculture and maritime studies, with the view of projecting socio-economic development of the nations.
The bill which passed through second reading on Wednesday in Abuja, after long hours deliberation during the plenary section, Senate further referred the bill to committee on tertiary education for further consideration.
Sponsored by Sen. Bima, Muhammad Enagi representing Niger South senatorial district.
According to Senator Enagi said that the establishment of the University is necessary to utilize the vast natural resources, respond to concerns of rapid growing population and challenging labour market which only trained experts find vacancies to occupy to make value addition to the ongoing project to make Nigeria better.
He added that if the bill is passed into law it will diversify the economy of the nation in the areas of farming and fishing with its unique location in Niger State
“If this bill is supported, Mr. President, Distinguished Colleagues, steps towards the realization of SDGs 2, 4, 9 and 12 which emphasize Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Industry / Innovation, Production, will be enhanced.
“Institutes/facilities in the locality that will be of great benefit and serve as Departments of the University include:
“Institute of Agricultural Research, Mokwa;
IITA Mokwa Research Station;
Mokwa Ranch and Abattoir;
Federal College of Wildlife Management, Mokwa;
National Institute of FreshWater Fisheries, New Bussa.
Federal College of FreshWater Fisheries, New Bussa,” he stated.