Senate Passes Bills to Establish Agriculture College in Delta State

News in Brief:

— Nigeria's Senate has passed bills to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Delta State to support agricultural education.

— The bill targets expanding opportunities to train future stakeholders to strengthen the country's food systems.

The Nigerian Senate recently passed two bills seeking to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Delta State and a Federal Medical Centre in Oyo State. The House of Representatives transmitted the bills for concurrence, seeking to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act and the Federal Medical Centres Act.

Delta to Get Federal College of Agriculture

The proposed Federal College of Agriculture will be located in Owa-Olomu, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno, who presented the bills on behalf of Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, said the proposal had passed the required legislative stages.

The institution is expected to expand access to agricultural education, provide practical training for aspiring farmers and agribusiness professionals, and support efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Its establishment could also create opportunities for young people in Delta State to acquire specialised agricultural knowledge and technical skills.

College Expected to Boost Local Economy and Farming

The proposed college could stimulate economic activities in its host community and surrounding areas. The arrival of students and staff, as well as construction and institutional operations, could increase demand for housing, food, transportation and other services, creating opportunities for local traders and small businesses.

Additionally, agricultural institutions can support smallholder farmers through research, extension services and the dissemination of improved farming techniques, seed varieties and livestock management practices. These initiatives could help farmers improve productivity and adopt more efficient production methods.

For young people in neighbouring communities, the institution could improve access to specialised tertiary education, encourage agricultural entrepreneurship and promote careers in agribusiness. However, the extent of these benefits will depend on the college’s funding, infrastructure, academic programmes and engagement with surrounding communities. Its development could therefore link agricultural education with local economic growth, rural livelihoods and food production in Delta State.

Medical Centre Planned for Oyo

A second bill seeks to amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022, to provide the legal framework for establishing a Federal Medical Centre in Ido, Oyo State.

The Senate referred both bills for consideration and approval, before passing them through third readings and voice votes.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the lawmakers involved in the process. He expressed hope that the proposed institutions would bring education and healthcare services closer to communities.