Ekiti Community Seeks Swift Passage of Bill to Establish Agric College

Residents of Ise Ekiti Community in Ekiti State are urging the House of Representatives to swiftly pass a bill establishing a college of agriculture in their area. The Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, Oba Adetunji Ajayi, emphasized that such an institution would significantly enhance food security nationwide. In a statement released by Elder Tunji Falana, National Chairman of the Ise-Ekiti Development Council, Oba Ajayi recently addressed the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions. He stressed the community’s readiness to collaborate with the federal government on agricultural initiatives, highlighting their ample land resources suitable for cocoa, cassava, and rice production. Additionally, Emeritus Professor Philip Adetiloye of Ise Ekiti underscored the community’s agricultural potential and the urgent need for a federal College of Agriculture. He emphasized the importance of training a new generation of farmers and farm managers to rejuvenate the agricultural sector amidst dwindling farming populations. Representative Adeniyi Ojuawo of Ekiti South West, Ikere, and Ise/Orun Federal Constituency, welcomed the community’s plea in the National Assembly, advocating strongly for the establishment of the college in Ise Ekiti. The community, backed by local leaders and intellectuals, awaits a favorable response from the House to expedite this critical initiative for agricultural development. Source- Punch

OUR REVIEW Establishing a college of agriculture in Ise Ekiti, as urged by its community leaders and intellectuals, holds significant potential for enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. Led by Oba Adetunji Ajayi, the Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, the community emphasizes the institution’s role in bolstering national food security. Elder Tunji Falana highlighted their readiness to collaborate with the federal government, citing ample land for cocoa, cassava, and rice. Emeritus Professor Philip Adetiloye stressed the urgent need for the college to train new farmers and managers, crucial amid declining agricultural participation. Representative Adeniyi Ojuawo supports the initiative in the National Assembly, advocating its pivotal role in local and national agricultural development. This move not only addresses immediate food security concerns but also fosters agricultural education and innovation. It aligns with broader efforts to revitalize farming communities and attract youth to agriculture, crucial for sustained economic growth.