The Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions has received a proposal to review and amend the Bill establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies in Iragbiji, Osun State. The bill, sponsored by Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele of Ekiti Central Senatorial District, aims to address governance and structural issues in the proposed university. During a recent public hearing at the National Assembly, stakeholders emphasized the importance of aligning the governance model of the new university with existing agricultural institutions.
Concerns were raised about the bill’s current designation of the Minister of Education as the university’s supervisory authority. It was argued that, consistent with the law governing other federal universities of agriculture, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security should oversee the institution. Stakeholders urged that the new university operate under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to prevent the functional and administrative issues previously encountered by other institutions.
They called for the inclusion of a representative from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on the university’s governing council.
Bill amendment for Osun university governance
Changes to the appointment process for the pro-chancellor were also proposed, recommending that the selected individual possess relevant expertise in agricultural and development studies.
Additionally, while acknowledging Nigeria’s tropical climate, it was recommended to remove the specific reference to “tropical studies” from the university’s title, arguing that it may not be necessary. Stakeholders proposed that the composition of the Finance and General Purpose Committee include a representative from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to ensure the university’s financial and strategic management aligns with national agricultural policies. These adjustments were suggested to enhance the university’s focus on agricultural training and research, ensuring it fulfills its mandate to advance modern agricultural practices and contribute to national food security.
Specific recommendations included ensuring the appointment of a suitable pro-chancellor with adequate knowledge of the university’s mandate and specifying that the overseeing minister is the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. The proposals aim to enhance the governance and operational efficiency of the proposed Federal University of Agriculture and Tropical Studies, ultimately contributing to the advancement of modern agricultural practices in Nigeria. The Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions will consider these recommendations as they review and potentially amend the bill before its passage.
