Senate greenlights bill for new agricultural university in Osun

The Senate on Wednesday gave expeditious passage to a bill seeking the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State.

In a swift session, the senators passed the bill for its first and second readings in under an hour.

The Executive Bill, sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, was the first to be treated for a second reading after being introduced along with five other bills.

In his lead debate, Senator Bamidele described the proposed institution as a critical step toward addressing the educational needs of the population while serving as a training ground for the development of agricultural experts in Nigeria.

He said, “Agriculture and its allied sectors are the largest livelihood providers, especially in rural areas, and can significantly contribute to the country’s GDP.”

According to Bamidele, the proposed university will focus on the holistic development of agriculture and tropical studies, equipping students with the skills and foresight to contribute to agricultural growth, increase farmers’ incomes, and generate employment in the sector.

He outlined the university’s objectives, including the promotion of learning for all individuals, regardless of race, creed, gender, or political beliefs.

Bamidele also emphasized that the institution would catalyze postgraduate training, research, and innovation, enhancing the effective utilization and conservation of Nigeria’s agricultural resources.

He added, “The university will provide practical solutions to the problems and needs of Nigeria’s agriculture sector within the context of national development. It will also promote sound scientific training as a foundation for advancing agriculture and tropical studies, considering indigenous cultures and fostering national unity.”

Bamidele highlighted the growing trend of specialized universities in Nigeria, particularly those focused on science and technology, and stressed the importance of establishing more agricultural universities.

“This institution will support the federal government’s ‘back to land’ policy aimed at diversifying the national economy,” he said.

The Senate, following the debate, passed the bill for a second reading and referred it to the Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND, which was directed to conduct a public hearing and report back in two weeks.