NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MOVES BILL TO CREATE TY DANJUMA UNIVERSITY IN TARABA TO SECOND STAGE

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By; Ganiyat Sunmola

The House of Representatives on Wednesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish the Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma Federal University of Agriculture and Solid Minerals in Jalingo, Taraba State, in what lawmakers described as a strategic effort to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in agriculture and mining.

The bill progressed at plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, following debate led by Sadiq Tafida, who represents Jalingo, Yorro and Zing Federal Constituency.

Presenting the lead debate, Tafida said the proposed institution is aimed at bridging critical gaps in manpower development, research and innovation within the agriculture and solid minerals sectors.

He stressed that the initiative goes beyond expanding the number of universities, describing it instead as a targeted intervention to address structural weaknesses in key areas of national development.

Tafida noted that despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural land and mineral resources, the country continues to face food insecurity, unemployment and underutilisation of its natural wealth.

He argued that Taraba State, in particular, is richly endowed with fertile land and solid mineral deposits, but lacks a specialised federal institution to fully harness these resources.

According to him, the proposed university will focus on advanced agricultural research, sustainable mineral development, training of skilled manpower, and promotion of entrepreneurship and youth self-reliance.

The lawmaker further explained that the institution is expected to foster collaboration between academia, industry and government, ensuring research outputs are translated into practical solutions.

He also highlighted anticipated economic benefits, including job creation, stimulation of local economic activity in Jalingo, reduction in youth unemployment, and promotion of national integration through student diversity.

Tafida described the naming of the university after General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma as a tribute to his contributions to national development, peacebuilding and philanthropy.

He added that the proposal aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda on economic diversification, food security and expansion of access to specialised tertiary education.

Addressing funding concerns, he maintained that the institution’s dual focus on agriculture and solid minerals makes it a worthwhile investment with long-term national benefits.

The bill is now expected to proceed to the next legislative stage as lawmakers continue deliberations on its provisions.