By Peter Jatau, Abuja – July 28, 2025
Disturbed by the poor international recognition and low global ranking of Nigerian agricultural institutions, the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions has unveiled a comprehensive reform initiative aimed at repositioning the sector for global relevance.
Chairman of the Committee, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, made this known during an interactive session with stakeholders from various agricultural institutions across the country.
Senator Alli decried the continued relegation of Nigeria’s agricultural colleges in international rankings, despite the nation’s rich agricultural heritage. He revealed that the committee has developed an alternative roadmap that will usher in global recognition and elevate academic standards across the institutions.
According to him, the proposed strategy includes:
- Consultative meetings with strategic stakeholders,
- A National Legislative Summit and the official launch of the National Council on Agricultural Institutions (NACAI),
- A COP30 Pavilion to showcase Nigeria’s agricultural education to the world,
- A Parliamentary Exchange and Global Benchmarking Tour, and
- Stakeholder Engagement Sessions across all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
“These initiatives are designed to align Nigeria’s agricultural institutions with global best practices,” Senator Alli stated, adding that most of the colleges, though ranked among the top 200 globally in traditional agriculture, still lag behind in modern technology adoption and lack the required infrastructure.
He emphasized the need to shift from outdated systems and practices to tech-driven models that address today’s agricultural challenges and equip students for innovation and sustainability.
Stakeholders present at the session welcomed the roadmap and pledged their support, describing the Senate’s move as a long-overdue step toward restoring the dignity and potential of Nigeria’s agricultural education system.
Senator Alli concluded by urging all relevant ministries, private sector players, and development partners to key into the reform process to reposition Nigeria as a leader in modern agricultural education on the African continent.
