Stakeholders okay bill to establish agric varsity in Borno

Critical stakeholders in the country on Monday endorsed the Senate’s bill for an act to establish a federal university of agriculture and entrepreneurship development in Bama, Borno State.

The bill is sponsored by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (Borno Central).

The stakeholders comprising members of the Bama emirate council, senators, state assembly members, commissioners and key actors in education and agriculture sectors across the country unanimously agreed that the bill be passed.

The event was organised by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, chaired by Senator Dandutse Muntari Mohammed (Katsina South) at the National Assembly in Abuja.

• Police grill Rep captured assaulting Bolt driver
• Stop misusing IGP’s name, police warn Rep captured ‘assaulting’ driver

In a memorandum presented during the public hearing by Prof. Umar Kyari, the Borno stakeholders unanimously asked the Senate to pass the bill, saying “it’s a catalyst for the socio-economic development of the region.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio who was represented by the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) said
the proposed university is not just an academic institution but a beacon of hope and empowerment for the youths of Borno State and the North East region.

“The agricultural sector holds immense potential for job creation and food security, and it is imperative that we harness this potential through education and research,” Akpabio added.

The sponsor of the bill, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan said, “The university is more than just an educational institution; it is a vital catalyst for change. It embodies our commitment to building a resilient economy, nurturing our youth, and cultivating a sustainable future for Nigeria.”

In his remarks, Senator Dandutse said the university would address key areas of national needs such as agricultural advancement, entrepreneurship development, regional development and stability among others.

The deputy speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly who represented Governor Babagana Zulum, His Royal Highness, Shehu Bama and many others who participated in the public hearing said the university would address the issues of unemployment and drive progress in the state and beyond.