The Senate on Thursday passed for third reading a bill to establish the Federal College of Agriculture in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State. The legislative action is part of ongoing national efforts to modernise farming practices, boost agricultural productivity, and strengthen food security across the country.
The passage followed the presentation and adoption of a comprehensive report by the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions during plenary.
Sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South), the bill addresses Nigeria’s over reliance on traditional farming techniques by providing specialized training in modern agricultural technology, improved crop varieties, and advanced scientific techniques.
The proposed institution aims to transition local agriculture away from crude, manual farming methods towards technology driven techniques that increase crop yield and operational efficiency.
Shani LGA, a major hub for rice, tomato, and onion cultivation sharing boundaries with agricultural zones in Adamawa and Bauchi states was selected for its high agricultural potential and capacity to serve neighboring farming communities.
Describing the bill’s passage as one of his defining legislative achievements, Senator Ndume noted that the college will build vital capacity for regional integration, research, and skills acquisition.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Senator Ndume and the committee for delivering a forward looking, development driven initiative capable of boosting national agricultural output.
Following its passage in the Upper Chamber, the bill will now be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence. Upon approval by the lower chamber, the final bill will be forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for executive assent.
Once established, the Federal College of Agriculture in Shani is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth, youth empowerment, and sustainable food production across the North-East and Nigeria at large.
