The Senate has passed a bill seeking to establish a Federal College of Agriculture in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State to promote modern farming methods and boost agricultural productivity.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, was passed for third reading on Thursday following the adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions.

Ndume said the proposed institution would help address Nigeria’s low agricultural productivity by promoting modern technology, improved farming techniques and better crop varieties.

“One of the fundamental challenges facing agriculture in Nigeria is our continued reliance on crude farming methods,” he said.

“We have not made sufficient progress in improving productivity and making farming easier through modern technology.”

The senator said Shani was suitable for the institution because of its agricultural potential and proximity to farming communities in neighbouring Adamawa and Bauchi states.

He noted that the area was known for cultivating rice, tomatoes and onions, adding that the college would strengthen agricultural education and skills development in the region.

“I am excited about this achievement. I consider it one of my lifetime achievements in the National Assembly, especially as we approach the end of our legislative session,” Ndume said.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the committee and the bill’s sponsor, describing the proposal as a development-oriented initiative. He expressed optimism that the institution would contribute to agricultural development.

The bill will be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence. If approved by the lower chamber, it will be forwarded to President Bola Tinubu for assent before it can become law.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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