The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, has urged Federal Colleges of Agriculture (FCAs) to redouble efforts in training, research, and extension services in line with the Federal Government’s food security agenda.
Dr. Dabban made the call during his visit to the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Ondo State, where he commended the management and staff for their resilience despite sectoral challenges. He stressed that the Colleges play a critical role in advancing the mandate of the ARCN and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
He disclosed that ARCN is engaging with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to extend interventions to agricultural research institutions. He also noted that the review of the Conditions and Schemes of Service for National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) and FCAs is underway to improve staff welfare and institutional performance.
The Executive Secretary further directed FCAs to submit annual budgets, quarterly reports, staff nominal rolls, and promotion lists promptly, while ensuring effective communication with the Council. He urged them to share new research technologies for system-wide updates.
In his remarks, the Acting Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Prof. Alayande Folorunsho, appreciated the ARCN boss for his visit and appealed for renewed TETFund support for agricultural colleges. He also raised concerns over land grabbing around the institution, which he said threatens the safety of students and staff.
