The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has proposed a significant investment of N180 billion in Nigeria’s agricultural institutions for the 2025 fiscal year. This funding, aimed at strengthening the nation’s agricultural education and research capabilities, includes N54.38 billion allocated to Federal Universities of Agriculture and N126.03 billion for over 40 research institutes.
The announcement was made public on December 18, 2024, as part of the newly released 2025 Appropriation Bill, presented by President Bola Tinubu. The 2025 budget, titled “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” emphasizes the government’s commitment to fostering growth in key sectors such as agriculture.
Of the total N180 billion allocation, N54.38 billion is earmarked for the Federal Universities of Agriculture, representing 8.4 percent of the ministry’s N636 billion budget. This includes funding for several major institutions: the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (N13.77 billion); the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (N14.17 billion); the Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru (N3.98 billion); and others across the country.
Additionally, N126.03 billion is set aside for agricultural research institutes, including notable institutions like the Agricultural Research and Management Institute in Ilorin, the National Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, and the National Root Crops Research Institute in Umudike. These allocations underscore the government’s focus on using research-driven solutions to address food security and drive economic growth.
Dr. Moses Ogah, a lecturer at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, praised the allocation but emphasized the need for strategic implementation to ensure the funds lead to tangible outcomes. “It is a step in the right direction, but the challenge lies in executing the plans effectively,” he said. Ogah called for the establishment of key infrastructure such as hatcheries and processing plants to support agricultural production and enhance the universities’ capacity to contribute to national development.
Tobi Awolope, an agricultural economist at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of using the funds to improve infrastructure and research facilities. “This funding is an opportunity for agricultural universities to become hubs of innovation, addressing key challenges like food security and sustainable farming practices,” Awolope noted.
President Tinubu’s budget speech stressed the administration’s dedication to securing peace and rebuilding prosperity, with a focus on investments that stimulate sustainable growth. Economic projections for 2025 include a decline in inflation and a more favorable exchange rate, setting the stage for the successful implementation of these initiatives.
Experts agree that these proposed investments in education and research could play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, fostering innovation, and enhancing food security across the country.
