The Federal Government has unveiled plans to invest N1 billion in select polytechnics and universities with agriculture-focused programs, starting in the second quarter of 2025.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, disclosed this during an inspection tour of Yaba College of Technology’s Epe Campus.
Accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Education, Alausa highlighted the initiative’s goal of enhancing agricultural education and driving food security in Nigeria.
“Institutions like YABATECH must lead in equipping students with practical skills through mechanised farming and livestock ventures. This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for improved food production and national food security,” he stated.
Alausa emphasized that the initiative is part of the ministry’s six-point agenda to integrate agriculture into academic and research programs, leveraging Nigeria’s vast arable land and natural resources.
He noted that agriculture could serve as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy if tertiary institutions harness innovative approaches to revolutionize the sector.
Welcomed by Professor Funso Afolabi, Chairman of YABATECH’s Governing Council, and Rector Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, the minister commended the institution’s strides in vocational and technical education.
He urged them to lead in developing solutions that empower students and researchers to contribute meaningfully to agriculture.
In his remarks, Afolabi assured the minister of YABATECH’s commitment to supporting the federal government’s vision for a diversified economy through education.
The rector echoed this commitment, citing ongoing partnerships with industry leaders and the establishment of a demonstration farm to enhance practical agricultural learning.