The Nigerian Senate has fast-tracked a new bill to establish the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State, in an unusual move, suspending its standard procedures to accelerate the bill’s approval for a second reading.
The bill, introduced as an executive proposal, was sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who emphasized the need for a specialized agricultural institution to address Nigeria’s food security and employment challenges.
The Senate read the bill for the first time, then promptly suspended its rules to allow it to pass a second reading on the same day, underscoring the urgency and significance of this legislative effort.
In his passionate address, Senator Bamidele described the proposed university as a critical step for Nigeria’s agricultural and educational advancement, envisioning the institution as a foundation for economic development and national progress.
“Agriculture, along with related sectors, is the largest provider of livelihoods, especially in rural areas,” he stated.
According to Bamidele, agriculture has vast untapped potential to drive Nigeria’s GDP, creating employment and improving farmers’ incomes.
This proposed university, he said, is designed to train a new generation of agricultural experts and researchers who will drive agricultural innovation, improve farming practices, and introduce new agricultural technologies.
Senator Bamidele outlined several key objectives for the university, including providing a comprehensive approach to agricultural education, tropical studies, and research.
He argued that the university will be an “agent of change,” using postgraduate training, research, and innovation to develop Nigeria’s agricultural resources and economy.
“The university will provide sound scientific training that respects our indigenous cultures and promotes national unity,” he said.
He highlighted the university’s role as a public service institution, which will share the results of its research and training with the community, encouraging practical applications that directly benefit Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Bamidele pointed out that specialized universities are becoming increasingly common in Nigeria, focusing primarily on science and technology.
According to him, the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies will complement existing institutions, focusing on practical agricultural skills that align with Nigeria’s economic diversification goals.
“This will support the federal government’s back-to-land policy, which aims to diversify our national economy,” Bamidele added.
Bamidele also advocated for establishing more agricultural universities across the country, calling these institutions “drivers” of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Following the debate, the Senate unanimously passed the bill for a second reading, demonstrating strong support for the proposed university.
The Senate’s Tertiary Education and TETFUND Committee has been directed to conduct a public hearing on the bill within two weeks and report its findings.
