FG Rolls Out N30bn Mechanised Farming Boost for Agriculture Varsities: Big Wins for Education and Food Security

By Achimi muktar

In a bold move to revamp agricultural education and bolster food security, the Federal Government has approved a whopping ₦30 billion for the nation’s 30 Universities of Agriculture. The initiative mandates these universities to establish mechanised farming systems as part of a larger effort to realign their focus with their core mandates.

Agriculture Universities to Receive ₦1 Billion Each

Announcing the plan during a retreat for pro-chancellors of federal universities in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, declared that each of the 30 institutions will receive ₦1 billion as a take-off grant for mechanised farming projects. The goal is to transform these specialised universities into hubs of agricultural innovation and production, playing a critical role in the country’s food security agenda.

“You are a faculty of Agriculture, yet you don’t have a farm. What are you teaching?” Alausa challenged. “Every university with a faculty of agriculture must now set up mechanised farming and livestock production to contribute to food security and economic growth.”

Revamping Focus: A Mandate for Specialized Universities

The minister criticized the drift from core mandates, citing instances of agriculture universities offering courses in accounting and technology universities delving into insurance programs. He issued a directive for universities to strictly adhere to their original purpose.

“This president’s priority is food security. Universities of Agriculture must lead this charge by focusing on what they were established to do,” Alausa said.

Healthcare Education Also Gets a Boost

In addition to agriculture, the government has allocated ₦17 billion to 18 medical schools for training healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and nurses. This initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system by equipping universities to produce skilled medical practitioners.

Empowering Students Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship

To further support students, the government is rolling out startup innovation grants for entrepreneurial ventures. These grants aim to nurture students’ creative potential and equip them with resources to build viable businesses.

“We want to unleash the innate potential of our youth,” Alausa stated. “Our focus is to give them the support they need to contribute meaningfully to this country.”

Green Energy and Campus Transportation

In another exciting development, the government is partnering with a green energy company to introduce renewable campus transportation. As part of a pilot program, each university will receive 25 electric tricycles to be operated by student unions. The initiative aims to provide affordable and sustainable transportation, with rides costing as little as ₦15.

A Strategic Vision for the Future

This sweeping reform reflects the Federal Government’s strategic focus on education, food security, and youth empowerment. By realigning universities with their original mandates and injecting substantial funds into key sectors, the administration is laying the groundwork for a more self-reliant and resilient Nigeria.

From mechanised farming to innovative grants and sustainable transportation, these initiatives underscore a renewed commitment to transforming education into a driver of national development.