The Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has pledged a strategic partnership with the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, to advance agricultural development in the country.
Senator Mustapha made this announcement in his goodwill message delivered during the Faculty of Agriculture Alumni Association Day, where he was honored as an awardee.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Mustapha, who was represented at the occasion by Dr. (Mrs.) Monica Sunnie-Ododo, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a meaningful acknowledgment of his dedication to agricultural development.
He reiterated his commitment to supporting innovative agricultural initiatives and empowering alumni to contribute significantly to national food security.
“With dedicated alumni like you, Nigeria has no reason to import food or endure hunger. Your ideas and initiatives are pivotal to building a self-reliant and food-secure nation. This is an enormous opportunity, and I am confident you will seize it,” the Senator remarked.
In his speech, Senator Mustapha highlighted his legislative contributions, including the sponsorship of eight bills, five of which focus on agriculture. Notable among them are:
The Senator also announced the establishment of a dedicated desk in his office to provide alumni with access to federal opportunities for implementing innovative agricultural projects.
While reacting, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Oluyemisi Bolajoko Fawole, commended Senator Mustapha for his visionary leadership and proactive approach to agricultural development.
“The Faculty of Agriculture is proud to associate with a leader who understands the pivotal role agriculture plays in national development. Senator Mustapha’s commitment to advancing agriculture through legislative actions and partnerships reflects a profound understanding of the sector’s transformative potential,” he stated.
He added that the faculty is eager to collaborate with the Senator’s office to implement impactful agricultural projects that will benefit not only Kwara State but also the nation at large.
“This partnership has the potential to unlock numerous opportunities for research, innovation, and practical solutions to the challenges of food insecurity. Senator Mustapha’s initiative is a call to action for all stakeholders in the agricultural value chain,” he concluded.
The Alumni Association Day, themed “Setting the Pace for Alumni and Community Development” witnessed robust discussions and commitments to revamp Nigeria’s agricultural sector.