By Michael Agbaji
The Senator representing South Senatorial District of Benue State ABBA MORO says insecurity is threatening Food production in Nigeria.
The Senator Abba Moro made the statement during the lead debate on the bill to establish Federal College of Agricultural Technology in Opialu—Ojapo in southern Senatorial district of Benue state.
The Bill was read for the first time in this revered Chamber on Wednesday, 26th January, 2022.
According to Senator Abba Moro,the bill is a valorous stride towards, not only addressing the educational needs of the people of Benue State and by extension Nigerians but it will also serve as training ground for the development of agriculturalists in the country,
He says , the primary intent of the Bill is to establish the Federal College of Agricultural Technology, Opialu-Ojapo, to contribute to the development of Nigeria through training of qualitative manpower, adequate exposure to sound theoretical background, practical farm and field demonstration as well as knowledge capacity development for staff.
He highlighted the benefits of the bill if sign into law will help Government to provide the biggest livelihood in Nigeria, especially in the rural areas,and also contributes significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP).
According to him, the demand for agricultural products is on daily increase with increase in population and per capital income and growing demand from industrial sectors.
He says, The Federal College of Agricultural Technology, Opialu-Ojapo, when established will train and produce morally sound graduates to become self-employed in the area of Science and Agriculture; establish linkages and collaboration with other policy makers, research institutes and training institutions; establish and manage modern standard livestock farms, veterinary clinics and diagnostic laboratories, produce technicians capable of carrying out routine preventive measures and advisory services in livestock, fishery and crop production, promote capacity building through outreach programs, vocational training, continuous education among others in the area of Science and agriculture, promote youth development and empowerment opportunities through entrepreneurial and agricultural activities.
According to Senator Abba Moro, in the face of the current security challenge that threatens food security, a knowledge-driven agricultural practice is an imperative need.
Senate President, sen. Amhed Lawan recommended the bill to on committee on Agriculture for further Legislative action.
