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The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, has called on Federal Colleges of Agriculture (FCAs) to intensify efforts in research, innovation, and training to bolster Nigeria’s food security and agricultural development. His remarks were made during a recent visit to the Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, as part of his familiarization tour of key agricultural institutions across the country.

Dr. Dabban emphasized that Nigeria’s agricultural transformation hinges on the strength of its institutions, particularly the Colleges of Agriculture and National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) that are central to the National Agricultural Research System (NARS). He noted that these institutions play a crucial role in fostering innovation, advancing research technologies, and training skilled personnel who are key to improving productivity in the sector.

In his address, Dr. Dabban urged the Colleges to enhance their capacity in vocational training, increase the dissemination of research findings, and develop new technologies that can contribute to higher agricultural yields and national economic growth. “It is essential that these institutions not only focus on academic excellence but also contribute directly to the agricultural sector’s growth through innovation and hands-on training,” he stated.

He also spoke on the ARCN’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the sector, including the review of the Conditions and Schemes of Service for staff in both NARIs and FCAs. According to Dr. Dabban, these reforms are designed to improve staff welfare, modernize institutional infrastructure, and ensure that agricultural research remains at the forefront of national development.

As part of these efforts, ARCN is collaborating with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation to review staff conditions, and engaging the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to extend its support to the agricultural sub-sector. Dr. Dabban reiterated the importance of adhering to financial and reporting protocols, urging the Colleges to submit annual budgets, quarterly reports, and research outputs in a timely manner.

In his response, the Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, Prof. Jonathan J. Atungwu, hailed Dr. Dabban’s visit as an important milestone in the College’s long history, which dates back to 1921. He expressed optimism that the visit would result in stronger collaboration between the ARCN and the institution, leading to better research outcomes and academic development. Prof. Atungwu also praised the ARCN for its advocacy in securing TETFund resources that have enhanced the College’s infrastructure and research capacity.

The Executive Director of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Prof. Gabriel Oluwatosin, shared insights into the Institute’s role in soil science, grains, legumes, and value addition. He emphasized the strong collaboration among the various agricultural institutions in Ibadan, which collectively drive the nation’s agricultural research agenda.

Dr. Chidi Okpeze, Acting Provost of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, also expressed gratitude for Dr. Dabban’s visit, noting that it would provide fresh opportunities for institutional growth and partnership within the agricultural community.

The visit included a guided tour of the College’s facilities and an interactive session with staff and students. It was attended by key stakeholders, including provosts of affiliated colleges and directors of research institutes under ARCN, who all echoed Dr. Dabban’s call for greater collaboration and continued excellence in agricultural research and training.

Dr. Dabban closed the event by reaffirming that sustained innovation, research, and training are crucial to Nigeria’s agricultural success and its ability to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

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