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The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, has commenced an oversight visit to all colleges and institutes under the council’s purview. The visit, which began on Monday, September 22, 2025, is aimed at assessing the operations and progress of these institutions, and ensuring that they align with the council’s vision for growth and development in agricultural research.

In his first stop at the National Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Dr. Dabban expressed his satisfaction with the institute’s collaborative work culture, which he attributed to their success in advancing marine research. He commended the staff for their dedication and urged them to continue supporting the Executive Director, Prof. Abiodun Sule, in their shared mission for marine resource management and sustainable development.

Dr. Dabban highlighted key achievements since assuming office, particularly the ongoing discussions with the Head of Service to address staff welfare, improve the condition of service, and ease access to funds through the Nigerian Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND). He assured the staff that the council is committed to pushing for results in these areas.

“This is a new dawn for agricultural research, and we are determined to change the narrative,” said Dr. Dabban. “We want to see more associate professors in the research sector and we need your support to change the nomenclature.”

Prof. Abiodun Sule, the Executive Director of NIOMR, provided an overview of the institute’s achievements since its establishment in 1975, highlighting its contribution to food security, poverty reduction, and the cleanliness of the marine environment. He emphasized the institute’s role in the genetic improvement of marine species, post-harvest management, and marine fisheries training.

Dr. Sule also pledged the institute’s continued support for the ARCN’s efforts, particularly in data collection for further research and policy development.

The Director of Biological Oceanography, Dr. Ademola Yakub, further outlined the institute’s staff strength of 627, with over half serving as researchers. He also mentioned the institute’s outstations in Badore, Lagos, where fish feed is produced, and the various annexes housing specialized laboratories.

Dr. Dabban continued his visit to the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology in Lagos, where he praised the institution’s efforts in ensuring it remains a vital resource for Nigeria’s educational and research needs. He assured the faculty and staff of the ARCN’s ongoing support, particularly in areas relating to staff welfare and financial provisions through TETFUND and NADF.

“We have met with the Executive Secretary of TETFUND, and we are in the process of signing a memorandum of understanding with them. Rest assured, issues related to lecturer funding will soon be addressed,” Dr. Dabban stated.

The Provost of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Dr. Paul Chuks Onuoha, highlighted several landmark achievements, including the accreditation of marine engineering and HND programs, along with the expansion of the student population from 500 to 2000. The college has also invested in new infrastructure, including 800 additional bed spaces in hostels, new laboratories, and workshops to support its growing student body.

Dr. Onuoha also noted the college’s commitment to sustainability, mentioning that the campus is powered entirely by a solar system, ensuring 24/7 power supply.

In conclusion, Dr. Dabban assured both institutions that the ARCN will continue to push for improvements in funding, infrastructure, and staff welfare, stressing the importance of collaboration between the council and these institutes in achieving national development goals.

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