House of Reps Pushes for Agricultural Science as Mandatory Subject in Secondary Schools.
The House of Representatives has taken a major step toward transforming Nigeria’s education and agriculture sectors by advancing a bill aimed at making agricultural science a compulsory subject in secondary schools.
Recently, the house passed a bill to make voting compulsory in Nigeria, as one of its ongoing reforms. Sponsored by several lawmakers, the legislation seeks to ensure that agriculture is no longer treated as a backbench topic but as a core skill in Nigeria’s curriculum.
Agriculture contributes largely to Nigeria’s GDP and sustains nearly 70% of its labour force, yet interest in farming is dwindling, especially among youth. This is largely because the sector is viewed as laborious and outdated. The proposed law is intended to reverse that trend, building practical knowledge and sparking entrepreneurial interest in modern agriculture from a young age.
Senator Saliu Mustapha, who is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, stressed the importance of teaching agriculture practically to combat widespread food insecurity, reduce reliance on imports, and develop a new generation of agro-entrepreneurs.
The bill proposes the mandatory inclusion of agricultural science, both theory and hands-on practical work, in the secondary school curriculum. It also aims to ensure the provision of agricultural labs and instructional farms within schools to support experiential learning. Furthermore, it calls for collaboration with the education and agriculture ministries, ensuring state governments adapt the curriculum and equip teachers accordingly.
To further institutionalize agricultural learning, the bill advocates the establishment of six specialized agricultural colleges under the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, covering areas like veterinary, land management, fisheries, and animal health.
During its second reading, the bill was championed by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who described it as a strategic investment aimed at equipping the future workforce and boosting food security. In related reforms, the House passed an amendment to expand the mandate of the Agricultural Research Council, authorizing the establishment of federal agricultural colleges in each geopolitical zone to strengthen rural innovation.
The House also advanced another bill to establish the Nigerian Institute of Agricultural and Applied Economics, aiming to provide governance and professional standards for agric-economists. Locally, lawmakers such as Kwara’s Ganiyu Salau have pushed for similar integrations across states to foster self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship.
This form of school-based agricultural education has fueled success stories in other countries, like Israel and India, where practical agriscience has catalyzed innovations in food security. Senator Mustapha warned that without action, Nigeria risks lagging in global food production efforts. He emphasized that agriculture should be seen not only as subsistence but a viable business medium and high income source for youth and future generations.
The bill has passed the second reading and is now with relevant committees. This legislation represents a shift in Nigeria’s approach to education and agriculture. By making agricultural science compulsory, the country can nurture informed, skilled young minds ready to tackle food security and drive agro-industrial growth. If executed well, this bill could plant the seeds for Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance and economic resilience.
If you enjoyed this article, click here to read more informative posts, also check us out on Instagram for fun and engaging content.
Disclaimer: The opinions, views, and information expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of iNaijanow. The company assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or damages arising from the use of this information.
