The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, has called on National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) and Federal Colleges of Agriculture (FCAs) to redouble their efforts in driving agricultural transformation and strengthening food security in the country.
This was contained in a statement signed by Khadijat O. Ameen, Head of Public Relations at ARCN, following Dr. Dabban’s working visit to the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) in Ibadan today.
He said the directive from the Minister is for research institutes and colleges to renew their focus and prioritize all aspects of production to meet national demands. Dabban emphasized the need for NARIs and FCAs to reinvigorate linkages and collaborations to deliver on their mandates, adding that work is ongoing to secure more funding for agricultural research.
“We are the engine room and we shall be seen. Meetings are ongoing to sign a memorandum of understanding with TETFund. This visit is to identify areas where the institute is lagging, so that when funds come, they are properly utilized,” Dabban said.
The ARCN boss also revealed that discussions are underway with the Head of Service on a new scheme of service for research institutes and colleges. He added that the council is updating guidelines for managing NARIs and FCAs to reflect current realities, promote best practices, and enhance seamless coordination.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of NIHORT, Prof. Muhammed Lawal Atanda, highlighted progress made in horticultural crops research. He commended the visit of the ARCN Executive Secretary as a boost to the institute but stressed the need for improved funding, noting that delays often slow down research activities.
Prof. Atanda appealed for more support and motivation from the ARCN to enable NIHORT to achieve greater results, while commending the dedication and cooperation of the institute’s staff.
