The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, has pledged that the ministry will support agricultural and infrastructure development at the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, FUEK, in Niger State, and other tertiary institutions to promote food security, reduce poverty, and drive economic growth.
Abdullahi made the pledge during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the university led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Haruna, to the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro Pocket, NAGS-AP, office in Abuja.
He said the ministry’s collaboration with the Federal University of Education would focus on practical, hands-on agricultural training and entrepreneurship that can generate profit for students, while building a new generation of agripreneurs.
According to the minister, institutions should adopt smart agriculture business models that use digital technology and data analytics to improve efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. He explained that this approach moves beyond traditional farming by optimizing inputs, improving yields through precision management, and creating a connected food system.
Abdullahi noted that agriculture teachers once played a strong role in shaping food production skills but their influence has gradually declined. He said this led to the formation of the Young Farmers Club, YFC, a youth-focused organization designed to engage young people in agriculture through practical skills, modern techniques, and leadership.
He added that the initiative aims to make farming attractive, promote food security, and encourage self-reliance among youths. The minister also disclosed that major initiatives have recently been launched in Nigeria by the First Lady to boost youth involvement in agriculture as a viable career path.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, Prof. Faruk Haruna, said the minister sponsored the bill that established the university while serving as senator for Niger North, adding that it was assented to by former President Muhammadu Buhari on Dec. 31, 2021.
Haruna requested support for agro-processing and value addition centers for training and research, as well as modern farm machinery, renewable energy, cold rooms, greenhouses, and irrigation facilities to strengthen teaching at the institution nationwide.
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