The Senate Committee on Agricultural Institutions and Colleges, chaired by Senator Simon Bako Lalong, has urged agencies under its oversight to intensify their efforts in addressing the country’s food security challenges.
Speaking during a meeting at the National Assembly with heads of the agencies, Senator Lalong stressed the importance of aligning their operations with the nation’s agricultural development goals. He highlighted the committee’s earlier consultations with the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, aimed at enhancing coordination and ensuring effective delivery of their mandates.
Lalong acknowledged the challenges faced by these institutions, including funding constraints, and promised the committee’s commitment to securing better budgetary allocations. However, he expressed disappointment over the absence of some agency heads, directing them to appear in person at a future date to address pressing issues.
The senator emphasized the need for these agencies to work in synergy with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) to maximize their impact.
Institutions’ Achievements and Challenges
Providing an update on behalf of the agencies, Professor Garba Sharubutu, Executive Secretary of the ARCN, outlined the contributions of 16 agricultural research institutes and numerous training colleges. He highlighted their roles in harnessing regional agricultural potentials, advancing research, and developing skilled manpower.
However, Sharubutu noted that funding gaps, brain drain, and inadequate infrastructure remain significant obstacles to achieving their full potential.
Senate’s Focus on Agricultural Development
Other committee members echoed the need for strategic funding, improved infrastructure, and the practical application of research outcomes to address Nigeria’s food insecurity. They emphasized the importance of translating research into tangible solutions that directly benefit the agricultural sector.
Senator Lalong reiterated the committee’s intention to resume oversight visits to all 35 institutes and colleges next year after logistic delays hindered this year’s inspections.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to deliberate further on critical issues affecting the institutions.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District
28th November 2024
