The Federal Government has approved N30bn to support mechanised farming at the nation’s 30 universities of agriculture, aiming to enhance food security and agricultural development in Nigeria. Each university will receive N1 billion in take-off grants to establish mechanised farming systems.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during a retreat for pro-chancellors of federal universities in Abuja on Tuesday. Alausa emphasized the critical need for agricultural universities to focus on their core mandates, specifically agricultural education, and cease offering unrelated programs. He called on the universities to integrate mechanised farming and livestock production into their curricula to strengthen the sector’s contributions to national food security.
Alausa noted that the move would not only support agricultural advancement but also align university offerings with their original purpose, urging that universities with agricultural faculties should establish operational farms. The N30 billion initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve the agricultural industry and support local food production.
In addition to funding for agriculture, the government has allocated N17 billion to 18 medical schools to train healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and nurses. Alausa also announced plans to provide grants for university students to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, with a focus on supporting STEM education and green energy initiatives.
The education minister further revealed plans for a “renewed campus transportation” initiative, which will distribute 25 electric tricycles to universities across Nigeria, enhancing sustainable campus mobility.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing education, fostering innovation, and contributing to Nigeria’s long-term food and energy security goals.
