Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called for enhanced support for agricultural colleges and institutions as a strategic measure to combat food insecurity and unlock Nigeria's agricultural potential. The call was made during the maiden National Legislative Summit and Expo on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Moniya, Ibadan.
Represented by Deputy Senate Majority Leader Oyetola Ashiru, Akpabio emphasised that collaboration, innovation, and strong political will are essential to overcoming the challenges facing the agricultural sector. He stressed the need for strategic partnerships among stakeholders and urged Nigeria to adopt modern agricultural practices akin to those in developed nations.
Akpabio reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly and the executive arm to policies that strengthen agricultural institutions for sustainable food security. He also challenged Nigerian youths to explore opportunities in the agricultural value chain for wealth creation and economic empowerment, noting that agriculture remains a viable sector to address unemployment and drive growth.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, described the summit as timely given the growing concerns over food insecurity and the need for skilled manpower in the sector.
Meanwhile, the Kaduna State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has raised alarms over worsening insecurity and rising fertiliser costs threatening food production. AFAN Chairman Nuhu Aminu reported that many farmers in local government areas such as Giwa, Kauru, Kubau, Kudan, Kajuru, Sanga, and Kachia are unable to access their farmlands due to attacks by bandits and kidnappers.
Aminu stated that insecurity has severely impacted farming activities, with rural communities living in fear and some farmers abandoning cultivation. He warned that the situation could negatively affect food supply if urgent security measures are not implemented. Additionally, the high cost of chemical fertiliser has become a major challenge ahead of the planting season, forcing many smallholder farmers to consider organic alternatives, which are cheaper but still difficult to procure in sufficient quantities.
Aminu called on all levels of government to subsidise fertiliser and ensure timely distribution of farm inputs before the peak farming season. He urged greater attention to agriculture through support and incentives, highlighting the sector's role in sustaining the nation's economy.
