Reps move to establish rice production research institute

The house of representatives is considering a bill seeking to establish a national rice production, processing and research institute.

The institute, which would be situated in Argungu, Kebbi state, is aimed at advancing Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in rice and boosting exports.

Speaking on Monday during the public hearing on the bill, Bello Ka’oje, chairman of the house committee on agricultural production and services, said parliament remains committed to prioritising agriculture as a key driver of national development, job creation, and food security.

The public hearing also reviewed a bill to amend the National Agricultural Development Fund Act, 2025, to strengthen the fund for transparency, accountability, and efficient financing of key agricultural activities; and a bill to establish the national farm settlements agency to revive and modernise farm settlements, turning them into hubs for agro-industrial development, youth empowerment, and rural transformation.

“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy and the most reliable path to inclusive growth and poverty reduction. However, achieving food security and competitiveness requires sound policies supported by effective legislation,” the committee chairman said.

The legislator said submissions gathered from the public hearing will ensure amendments are practical, forward-looking, and beneficial to all segments of the agricultural sector.

He said the committee is committed to ensuring that every law passed strengthens productivity, enhances innovation, and provides real value to Nigerian farmers.

The lawmaker said parliament will continue to collaborate with the executive, relevant agencies, and the private sector to make agriculture a business that drives national prosperity.

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, who was represented by Ibrahim Isiaka, the deputy minority whip, said the proposed amendments are a “blueprint for a more secure, prosperous, and self-reliant Nigeria”.

“They demonstrate our commitment to harnessing the vast potential of our agricultural resources to improve the lives of our citizens,” he said.

Abbas asked stakeholders to work with the green chamber to build a resilient agricultural sector that “drives our economy, guarantees food security, and uplifts every Nigerian”.