The Federal Government has approved N30 billion for the nation’s 30 Universities of Agriculture to commence mechanised farming, with each institution receiving N1 billion as a take-off grant.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made the announcement in Abuja on Tuesday during a retreat for pro-chancellors of federal universities.
Alausa emphasised that specialised universities must refocus on their core mandates, urging agricultural and technological institutions to stop offering unrelated programmes.
“Universities of Agriculture must own and operate mechanised farming systems to contribute to food security, a key priority of this administration,” Alausa said.
He also criticised institutions offering courses outside their mandates, such as accounting and insurance.
In a related development, the government allocated N17 billion to 18 medical schools to train healthcare professionals, including doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurses.
The funds will be disbursed through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to strengthen medical education in Nigeria.
Alausa also revealed plans to support entrepreneurial students through startup innovation grants to unleash their potential.
Additionally, the government will introduce 25 electric tricycles in selected universities to enhance campus transportation at minimal costs for students.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging education to address food security, medical capacity, and youth empowerment across the country.
