The Federal Government has told the Federal Colleges of Agriculture to focus more on practical vocational and skills training to boost food production and ensure food security.
Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, gave this instruction during a meeting in Abuja.
He emphasized the importance of hands-on training, urging less theory and more practical learning for better understanding of agricultural businesses.
The minister, represented by Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abduallahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture, directed the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) to collaborate with key stakeholders in the agricultural education sector to implement the directive.
As part of efforts to enhance food production, Kyari urged the institutions to utilize available lands for agricultural purposes within their premises.
He reiterated a previous directive that called for the conversion of available lands in agricultural research and training institutions into productive agricultural areas.
Kyari stressed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting food production in the country and highlighted the crucial role of research and training in driving agricultural transformation.
The minister emphasized that agriculture is a pivotal sector that can transform the nation’s economy by meeting the increasing demands for food, nutrition, industry, and jobs.
He stated that agricultural productivity is crucial for socio-economic development and can lift millions of people out of food insecurity and low-income status.
Kyari also explained the government’s insistence on implementing the ARCN Act, noting that the recent amendment facilitates efficient management of research and training.
The amendment allows for the establishment of spin-off companies to commercialize research products and innovations generated by institutions, aiming to boost revenue.
He urged the institutions to strengthen this platform to increase internally generated revenue, supporting research, training, and extension activities.
Professor Garba Sharubutu, the Executive Secretary of ARCN, commended the minister for his contributions to ARCN’s development, highlighting the meeting’s focus on the amended ARCN Act, revenue generation, performance evaluation, and restructuring.
