The Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has earmarked a substantial N180 billion for federal agricultural universities and research institutes in its proposed 2025 budget. This represents a significant investment in the agricultural sector and underscores the government’s commitment to addressing food security and promoting economic growth through research and development. Of this total, N54.38 billion is specifically designated for the five federal universities of agriculture, representing 8.4% of the ministry’s overall budget of N636 billion. The remaining N126.03 billion is allocated to over 40 research institutes across the country, covering a broad spectrum of agricultural disciplines. This budgetary prioritization reflects a recognition of the critical role these institutions play in driving innovation, developing sustainable agricultural practices, and training the next generation of agricultural experts.
The allocation to the universities of agriculture is distributed as follows: Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (N13.77 billion); Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (N14.17 billion); Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru (N3.98 billion); Federal University of Agriculture, Bassam-Biri (N2.96 billion); and Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi (N3.58 billion). This funding is intended to bolster their capacity to conduct impactful research, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of agricultural education. The distribution reflects varying levels of established infrastructure and ongoing projects within each university. The substantial investment aims to empower these institutions to become centers of excellence in agricultural research and training, contributing significantly to national food security and economic development.
A significant portion of the N126.03 billion allocated to research institutes is directed towards key institutions focused on critical areas of agricultural development. The National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi receives N4.29 billion, the National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, is allocated N6.44 billion, and the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike receives N6.86 billion. Other notable allocations include N5.08 billion for the National Institute for Oil Palm Research, Benin, N4.34 billion for the National Horticultural Research Institute, Ibadan, and N5.47 billion for the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service. These investments are strategically aimed at strengthening research capacities in crucial agricultural sub-sectors, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Experts and stakeholders within the agricultural sector have welcomed this proposed budgetary allocation as a positive step towards revitalizing agricultural research and education in Nigeria. Dr. Moses Ogah, a lecturer at the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, acknowledged the significance of the proposed funding, describing it as a positive development and a potential catalyst for addressing food security challenges and reducing food costs. However, he emphasized the importance of strategic implementation and efficient utilization of the funds to maximize their impact. He also stressed the need for the universities of agriculture to fulfill their core mandate of food production and contribute to making food affordable for the general population. This sentiment highlights the expectation that these institutions will play a more active role in translating research findings into practical solutions for the benefit of the Nigerian populace.
Tobi Awolope, an agricultural economist and researcher at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the high expectations placed on agricultural universities given the increasing importance of the agricultural sector for national development. Awolope stressed the need for universities to prioritize research that addresses pressing issues such as food security, climate change, and sustainable farming practices. She also highlighted the importance of investing in modern laboratories, field research centers, and fostering partnerships with local farmers and agribusinesses to ensure the practical application of research outcomes. This collaborative approach is seen as crucial for bridging the gap between research and practice and ensuring that innovations reach the intended beneficiaries.
The proposed investment in agricultural universities and research institutes aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to prioritizing security and infrastructure as outlined in his budget speech, themed “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity.” This focus underscores the government’s recognition of the crucial role agriculture plays in achieving both economic growth and national security. The proposed budget is predicated on key economic assumptions, including a projected decline in the inflation rate from 34.6% to 15% and an exchange rate adjustment from N1,700 to N1,500 per dollar. These projections indicate the government’s optimism about stabilizing the economic environment and creating a conducive atmosphere for growth and investment in the agricultural sector. The substantial allocation to agriculture signals a strategic move to leverage this sector’s potential for driving economic recovery and achieving sustainable development.
