News in Brief:
– The Nigerian House of Representatives passed a bill proposing a new Agricultural and Energy Technical Institute in Delta State.
– This institute aims to modernise agriculture through training and leverage the region’s resources to boost the sector and achieve food self-sufficiency.
A bill proposing the establishment of the Agricultural and Energy Technical Institute in Aboh, Delta State, has advanced in the Nigerian House of Representatives after successfully passing its second reading.
The bill, sponsored by Nnamdi Ezechi, representing Ndokwa/Ukwani federal constituency, seeks to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act of 2004 to pave the way for the institute’s creation.
Equipping youths for modern agriculture
Leading the debate on the bill’s principles, the lawmaker noted the legislation’s potential to significantly benefit the agricultural and energy sectors, for the state in particular and the country overall.
Additionally, he highlighted the urgent need for innovative approaches, to maximise the potential of the agriculture sector. These approaches, he disclosed, include use of modern techniques and specialised training.
Furthermore, the lawmaker highlighted the suitability of Aboh for the institute due to its fertile land and abundant natural resources.
He argued that this strategic location would allow the institute to leverage the synergy between agriculture and energy to unlock new opportunities. This, he opined, will be achieved through research, training, and extension services, and the empowerment of farmers, as well as agricultural entrepreneurs.
Overall, the bill was presented as aligning with the government’s plan to diversify the economy and achieve self-sufficiency in food production. Ezechi explained that the institution will improve productivity, and enhance their livelihoods ultimately.
The bill was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions for further legislative action.
