October 02, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Nigerian Senate took a significant step towards expanding access to quality education on Wednesday, October 2, as it passed for first and second reading a bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State.
The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC – Ekiti Central), aims to provide comprehensive provisions for the management and administration of the proposed institution.
During the plenary session, Senator Bamidele presented the lead debate, highlighting the benefits of establishing a specialized university focused on agriculture and tropical studies. Senator Olarere Oyewunmi seconded the bill, with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Senator Solomon Adeola also expressing their support.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio subsequently put the request to a voice vote, and the bill was approved for first and second reading.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Tertiary Education and TETFUND for further legislative work. The committees are expected to report back to plenary within two weeks.
If passed into law, the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies would provide opportunities for students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in agriculture and tropical studies, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
This move aligns with the federal government’s efforts to promote agriculture as a key sector for economic diversification and job creation. The proposed university would also address the shortage of skilled manpower in the agricultural sector.
Senator Bamidele’s initiative demonstrates his commitment to education and economic development, building on his track record of sponsoring bills that benefit Nigerians.
