The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has earmarked N180 billion for Federal Universities of Agriculture and research institutes in its 2025 proposed budget, part of the ministry’s total allocation of N636 billion.
Breakdown of Allocations
Federal Universities of Agriculture
A total of N54.38 billion is allocated to five Federal Universities of Agriculture, representing 8.4% of the ministry’s budget:
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State: N13.77 billion
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State: N14.17 billion
Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State: N3.98 billion
Federal University of Agriculture, Bassam-Biri, Bayelsa State: N2.96 billion
Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, Adamawa State: N3.58 billion
Research Institutes
Over N126.03 billion has been allocated to more than 40 research institutes, including:
National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike: N6.86 billion
National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau State: N6.44 billion
National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi: N4.29 billion
National Horticultural Research Institute, Ibadan: N4.34 billion
Nigeria Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research: N5.09 billion
These allocations reflect the government’s commitment to leveraging research-driven solutions to enhance food security and foster economic growth.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Moses Ogah
A lecturer at the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, commended the allocation as a positive development, noting that it surpasses previous funding levels. He emphasized the need for strategic implementation, including investments in infrastructure like hatcheries, processing plants, and livestock facilities.
Tobi Awolope
An agricultural economist from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, highlighted the importance of prioritizing research in food security, climate change, and sustainable farming. She advocated for:
Establishing modern laboratories and field research centers
Partnering with local farmers and agribusinesses
Upgrading lecture halls, research farms, and demonstration centers to global standards
National Significance
President Bola Tinubu, in his budget presentation titled “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” underscored the administration’s focus on security and infrastructure development. He highlighted the importance of agriculture as a driver of economic transformation and sustainable development.
The budget is based on projections of declining inflation (from 34.6% to 15%) and an adjusted exchange rate (from N1,700 to N1,500 per dollar).
The proposed allocations to agricultural universities and research institutes are expected to:
Bolster Nigeria’s food security efforts
Enhance research and innovation in agriculture
Strengthen the capacity of institutions to address pressing challenges in the sector
With strategic implementation, these investments could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and economic growth.
