Senate Advances Bill for Federal College of Agriculture in Borno

The Senate has passed for third reading a bill seeking to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State to promote modern farming and improve agricultural productivity.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, was passed on Thursday after lawmakers adopted the report of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions during plenary.

The proposed institution is expected to provide agricultural education, equip farmers with modern farming skills and promote the adoption of improved agricultural technologies across the country.

Ndume said the college would help tackle persistent challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly the dependence on traditional farming methods and the slow 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.

The senator explained that the institution would facilitate the transfer of agricultural knowledge, improved farming techniques, modern technologies and better crop varieties to farmers.

He noted that Shani was strategically positioned for the proposed college because of its agricultural activities, particularly the cultivation of rice, tomatoes and onions.

According to him, the local government area shares boundaries with Adamawa and Bauchi states, which are also known for agricultural production.

Ndume expressed satisfaction with the Senate’s passage of the bill, describing it as one of his major achievements in the National Assembly as the current legislative session approaches its end.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the committee for its work and Ndume for sponsoring the legislation, saying the initiative would contribute to agricultural development in Nigeria.

Following its passage by the Senate, the bill is expected to be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for assent, in accordance with legislative procedures.