The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has proposed a significant allocation of N180 billion for Federal Universities of Agriculture and research institutes in the 2025 proposed budget. This move is expected to boost the country’s agricultural sector and support national development.
Out of the proposed N180 billion, N54.38 billion is specifically allocated to Federal Universities of Agriculture, representing 8.4% of the ministry’s total budget of N636 billion. The breakdown of the allocation to universities includes:
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State*: N13.77 billion
-Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State*: N14.17 billion
– Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State*: N3.98 billion
– *Federal University of Agriculture, Bassam-Biri, Bayelsa State*: N2.96 billion
– *Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, Adamawa State*: N3.58 billion
Additionally, the ministry has allocated N126.03 billion to over 40 research institutes, including:
– *Agricultural Research and Management Institute, Ilorin*: N2.17 billion
– *National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi*: N4.29 billion
– *National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau State*: N6.44 billion
– *National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike*: N6.86 billion
The proposed allocation has been welcomed by stakeholders, including Dr. Moses Ogah, a lecturer at the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, who described it as a “positive development” that could help tackle food security challenges and support national development. However, Ogah also stressed the need for strategic implementation and provision of infrastructure like hatcheries, processing plants, and livestock facilities.
Tobi Awolope, an agricultural economist and researcher at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, also shared her thoughts on the proposed allocation, emphasizing the need for universities to prioritize research that addresses pressing issues such as food security, climate change, and sustainable farming practices.
