Senate Advances Shani Agriculture College Bill to Boost Modern Farming

Jane Salihu

The Senate has advanced a bill seeking to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Shani, Borno State, in a move aimed at promoting modern farming techniques and improving agricultural productivity in Nigeria.

The bill passed its third reading on Thursday following the adoption of a report presented by the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions during plenary.

Sponsor of the bill, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, said the proposed institution would promote agricultural education, transfer modern farming knowledge and equip farmers with improved techniques for increased productivity.

Ndume identified continued reliance on traditional farming methods as one of the major challenges limiting agricultural development in the country, stressing the need for greater adoption of modern technology.

“One of the fundamental challenges facing agriculture in Nigeria is our continued reliance on crude farming methods.

“We have not made sufficient progress in improving productivity and making farming easier through modern technology,” he said.

He explained that the college, when established, would facilitate the transfer of improved farming techniques, agricultural technology, knowledge and better crop varieties to farmers.

The senator noted that Shani Local Government Area, which shares boundaries with Adamawa and Bauchi states, has significant agricultural potential, particularly in the cultivation of rice, tomatoes and onions.

He described the passage of the bill as one of his major achievements in the National Assembly, expressing satisfaction that the proposed institution could contribute to agricultural development in the area and the country at large.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, commended the committee foits work and Ndume for sponsoring what he described as a development-oriented initiative capable of advancing agricultural development in Nigeria.

With its passage by the Senate, the bill will be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for assent, in line with legislative procedures.