Spark News Daily learnt that the proposed amendment aims to provide for the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture, Darazo, in Bauchi State.
The proposed university aims to enhance agricultural research and development, provide holistic development of agricultural education, knowledge, skills, and extension services, and train agriculturalists and farmers in the North East and Nigeria as a whole
The Bill, sponsored by Senator Abdul Ningi, received overwhelming support from the lawmakers when it was read for the second time in the hallowed chamber on Tuesday 11 March, 2025. It was read for the First Time on Tuesday, 15th October, 2024.
In his lead debate, Senator Ningi highlighted the need for an agricultural education, training, and research institution in the North East, emphasizing the region’s significant landmass and population.
“Mr. President, Distinguished Colleagues, I am delighted to be permitted to lead the debate on a Bill for an Act to amend the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, to provide for the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture Darazo, Bauchi State.
“The Bill seeks to address the need for agricultural, education, training and research institutions not only for Bauchi State, but for the entire North East for its significant landmass and population.
“The mandate of the University is to enhance agricultural research and development not only in the North East, but the entire country. Agriculture and its allied sectors are unquestionably the largest livelihood provider especially in the rural areas and can contribute significantly to the GDP,” he said.
According to him, the demand for agricultural products is rising rapidly with increase in population and per capita income.
“The Federal University of Agriculture Darazo, when established, will provide for the holistic development of agricultural education, knowledge, skills and extension services.
“Mr. President and Distinguished Colleagues You may be aware that Darazo and the entire Bauchi State are purely agriculturalists. Agriculture cannot be practiced in modern time using the traditional methods without scientific knowledge and skills that will guide the entire farming process to increase agricultural yields and quality. The significance of agriculture in facilitating economic development of the country cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
The Senate supported in the debate and the bill was passed for the second reading and referred to the appropriate committee for further legislative actions.
