The Nigerian House of Representatives is making strides with Bill (SB. 144), which seeks to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) Act is sponsored by Hon. Julius Omozuanvbo Ihonvbere, who represents the Owan Federal Constituency, encompassing Owan East and Owan West in Edo State. The primary objective of this legislative proposal is to establish the Federal College of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Efon Alaye, Ekiti State.
While the main focus of SB. 144 is the establishment of the new college, previous legislative discussions, including a similar bill (SB. 118) from the last session, reveal broader goals associated with amending the ARCN Act. These goals include:
- Reforming the structure of the National Agricultural Research System to enhance effectiveness and cost-efficiency.
- Centralizing the management of agricultural research personnel under the ARCN.
- Increasing the policy-making authority of the ARCN over agricultural colleges.
- Providing a new legal framework to guide national agricultural research programs and project management.
- Reducing the costs associated with governance by eliminating the need for individual governing boards for each research institute and college.
- Aligning agricultural research efforts with national objectives for diversifying the Nigerian economy.
With a strong track record in sponsoring legislation focused on education, community development, and good governance, Ihonvbere continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that aim to enhance the agricultural sector and improve educational opportunities in Nigeria. As the legislative process for SB. 144 advances, stakeholders in the agricultural community and education sector remain optimistic about the potential impact of the proposed college on regional development and agricultural research.
