The Council Meeting of Colleges of Agriculture Sector of the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI) has called on the Federal Government to prioritize investment in agriculture to address the country’s prevailing food crisis and hunger.
This appeal was made at the association’s meeting held at the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology (FCFMT), Victoria Island, Lagos. The association emphasized that investing in agriculture is crucial to resolving the current food crisis.
In a communiqué signed by Comrade Shadrack Idris and Tomilola Oladipo, the Sector Chairman and Secretary respectively, the Council highlighted concerns over inflation, unemployment, insecurity, hardship, and the deteriorating state of the health sector. They urged all levels of government to address these issues comprehensively, noting that the agricultural sector can significantly contribute if adequately invested in.
Delegates from Colleges of Agriculture nationwide also called for proper funding of these institutions. The Council urged the Federal Government to implement the National Agricultural Development Funds (NADF) to foster rapid development in Colleges of Agriculture and related institutions, thereby enhancing the agricultural sector’s growth.
Regarding staff training and retraining, the Council emphasized the importance of consistent and periodic training to boost efficiency and productivity. They advocated for adequate funding for these training programs.
The Council strongly opposed Section 020612 of the Public Service Rules (PSR), which limits the tenure of union officers to a maximum of four years. They argued that this provision would hinder unionism, waste experienced union members’ expertise, and called for its review.
Additionally, SSAUTHRIAI rejected the categorization of Colleges of Agriculture as mono-technics, which they believe marginalizes these institutions. They demanded a clear definition of Colleges of Agriculture to ensure their rightful recognition among tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
The Council concluded that addressing these issues would significantly improve the agricultural sector and advance the nation’s progress.
