Nigeria must invest in research to drive agricultural reforms – Speaker

Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has called for greater investment in research and development, saying its a critical driver of comprehensive reforms in the agricultural sector.

He made this call on Monday at the opening of a public hearing on 11 proposed bills, organised by the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions. Abbas, represented by Ayokunle Isiaka, deputy majority whip, stressed that legislative intervention must underpin efforts to modernise Nigeria’s agricultural framework.

The Speaker noted that the bills, each aimed at establishing agriculture-related institutions across the country, we’re proposed in a bid to equip the sector with the legal and structural foundation needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global context.

“This is particularly important in a sector grappling with food insecurity, climate change, and the demands of international markets”, he said.

Abbas highlighted that the proposed laws embody a progressive vision for agriculture, one that moves beyond outdated practices and embraces innovation, digital integration, and inclusive economic growth.

“When passed into law, these bills will usher in a new era of scientific methodology, evidence-based policymaking, and knowledge-driven productivity, mirroring the success of other countries that have achieved remarkable agricultural transformation through sustained investment in research and development”, the Speaker explained.

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He added that Nigeria’s agricultural institutions stand to benefit immensely, with strengthened legal backing allowing for enhanced research capabilities, especially in areas such as crop yield improvement, pest control, and climate-smart farming.

“Improved extension services will help bridge the gap between research and on-the-ground practice, bringing innovations directly to farmers. This, in turn, will lead to higher productivity, improved livelihoods, better soil health, and stronger rural economies”, he said.

Also speaking at the public hearing, Isiaq Akinlade, Chairman of the Committee, said the Committee is working to ensure inclusive and transformative lawmaking that prioritises food security, skills development, institutional strengthening, and research innovation within agricultural education.

“We are working to ensure that legislative actions are aligned with national goals across agriculture, education, and rural development”, he said.

The bills under consideration include proposals to establish: the College of Land Resources Technology, Rabah, Sokoto State; the Federal College of Agriculture and Forestry, Oban Akamkpa, Cross River State; the National Institute for Agricultural Research and Entrepreneurship, Owode, Yewa, Ogun State; the Federal College of Agriculture, Igbeti, Oyo State; and the Federal College of Agriculture, Urhonigbe, Edo State.

Others include: the Fisheries and Aquatic Studies Research Institute, Darki, Wudil, Kano State; the National Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development Institute, Umuogba Omuma, Rivers State; the Federal College of Agriculture and Vocational Studies, Bayelsa State; the Federal University of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology, Igbo-Ora, Oyo State; the Federal College of Fisheries and Apiculture; and the Federal University of Agriculture, Akure, Ondo State.