By Our Correspondent
National News – Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday, called for stronger collaboration between the Federal Government, universities, researchers, financial institutions, development partners, technology experts, agribusiness investors, and farmers.
He said such synergy is essential to tackle food insecurity and reposition Nigeria’s agricultural sector for long-term productivity and growth.
He made the appeal at the maiden National Legislative Summit and Expo on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Oyo State.
Represented by Deputy Senate Majority Leader Isa Ashiru, Akpabio said agriculture must move beyond traditional practices to innovation-driven systems powered by mechanisation, biotechnology, data systems, irrigation science, and climate adaptation.
He stressed that farming should be seen as a profitable and modern career, especially for young Nigerians.
According to him, agriculture can no longer rely on outdated methods but must embrace tools such as drones, artificial intelligence, and smart farming technologies to boost efficiency, output, and job creation.
The Director-General of IITA, Simeon Ehui, said Nigeria can achieve major progress in food security through sustained partnerships.
He noted ongoing initiatives, including plans to establish 774 soil testing laboratories and youth agribusiness development programmes in collaboration with federal ministries.
Ehui explained that IITA works across Africa to support nutrition, employment, and sustainable agriculture through research and technology transfer.
He added that strong collaboration will ensure improved agricultural delivery systems for farmers and agro-industrial stakeholders.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions, Sharafadeen Alli, said the summit brought together policymakers, lawmakers, researchers, students, and private sector players.
He said the goal is to strengthen agricultural education, innovation, and institutional capacity across Nigeria.
Akpabio reiterated that no single sector can transform agriculture alone.
He urged coordinated action among all stakeholders to achieve food security, rural development, and economic stability.
He also emphasized the need for Nigeria to move from raw production to agro-processing and export-oriented agriculture.
According to him, this shift will reduce hunger, boost competitiveness, and strengthen national cohesion.
The Senate pledged continued support for policies that promote agricultural industrialisation, youth empowerment, and technology adoption to secure Nigeria’s food future.
