By Abbanobi -Eku Onyekachi
Abuja
Senator Rufa’i Hanga, representing Kano Central, has emphasized the importance of establishing a Federal University of Agriculture in Kura, Kano State. This comes after his sponsored bill, “A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture, Kura, Kano State,” passed its second reading on Tuesday.
The bill, aimed at promoting comprehensive provisions for the management and administration of the proposed university, received support from Senators Muhammad Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) and Kawu Sumaila (Kano South).
Senator Hanga explained that the objectives of the university, once established, would include encouraging the advancement of learning, promoting academic programs leading to diplomas and degrees, and fostering research and innovation in agriculture.
The establishment of a Federal University of Agriculture in Kura, Kano State, according to him, would significantly contribute to the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, adding that the sector is crucial to the country’s economy, providing employment opportunities and food security for millions of Nigerians.
Kano State, in particular, has significant agricultural potential, with major crops including rice, maize, sorghum, and millet. The state government has already initiated projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, such as the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project.
The proposed university would provide training and research opportunities in agriculture, focusing on innovative and sustainable practices. This would not only enhance agricultural productivity in Kano State, neighbouring states, Nigeria and West Africa in general, but also contribute to food security and economic growth in Nigeria and West Africa too.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is expected to receive continued support from stakeholders, including senators, agricultural experts, and the Kano State government.
