By Oluseye Ojo
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said it is mportant for graduates in Nigeria to serve as a strong linkage between researchers, farmers, and industries in order to enhance agricultural productivity.
He made the disclosure in his address to the graduands of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT) at their convocation and award ceremony in Ibadan.
Kyari, who was represented by Dr Kakulu Florence Omonele, the Oyo State Coordinator for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, listed the potential positive impact that such collaboration could have on various aspects of the nation’s well-being.
He noted that increased productivity could lead to reduced unemployment, an increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and a significant decrease in crime rates throughout the country.
The minister stressed that by utilising the skills acquired at the college, including entrepreneurial skills, the graduates have the potentials to become job creators instead of job seekers.
Kyari also urged the college management and staff to continue striving for excellence in the education provided to their students. He emphasizmsed the need to embrace new technologies and explore all available opportunities in order to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving agricultural industry.
In his convocation speech, Dr Adekoya Owosibo, the Provost of the college, congratulated the graduands and encouraged them to be exemplary ambassadors of the institution.
He urged them to contribute significantly to the development of agriculture, particularly in the field of livestock production in Nigeria.
Highlights of the ceremony included award of certificates to the graduands for their achievements in Agribusiness Management, Animal Production Technology, Animal Health Technology, and other programmes.