Abuja, October 2025 — In a decisive move to reshape Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the House of Representatives Committee on Agricultural Production and Services convened a public hearing on three critical bills aimed at strengthening the sector’s legal and institutional framework.

The proposed legislation includes:

1. A Bill to Amend the National Agricultural Development Fund (Establishment) Act, 2025 (HB 2036) — This bill seeks to reinforce Nigeria’s financial commitment to agriculture by enhancing the operational capacity of the National Agricultural Development Fund.

2. A Bill to Establish the National Farm Settlements Agency (HB 1347) — Designed to promote agricultural development, ensure food security, and stimulate economic growth, this bill envisions a coordinated approach to expanding farm settlements nationwide.

3. A Bill to Establish the National Rice Production, Processing and Research Institute, Argungu, Kebbi State (HB 423) — This legislation aims to provide a legal framework for a specialized institute to drive self-sufficiency in rice production through research, innovation, and value chain development.

Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, described the bills as a “blueprint for a more secure, prosperous, and self-reliant Nigeria.” He emphasized that the legislative effort aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the recently declared State of Emergency on Food Security.

“These bills demonstrate our commitment to harnessing the vast potential of our agricultural resources to improve the lives of our citizens,” Abbas stated. He called on stakeholders, experts, and citizens to actively participate in shaping inclusive and effective laws.

Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Bello Ka’oje, reaffirmed the House’s dedication to repositioning agriculture as a cornerstone of national development. He highlighted the importance of sound legislation in achieving food security, job creation, and poverty reduction.

“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy and the most reliable path to inclusive growth,” Ka’oje said. “This public hearing offers all stakeholders — policymakers, farmers, researchers, investors, and development partners — an opportunity to share valuable perspectives.”

He stressed the committee’s resolve to ensure that every law passed enhances productivity, fosters innovation, and delivers tangible benefits to Nigerian farmers. “We will continue to collaborate with the Executive, relevant agencies, and the private sector to make agriculture a business that drives national prosperity,” he concluded.

The hearing drew contributions from ministers, agency heads, research institutions, farmers’ associations, and media representatives, all of whom pledged their support for building a resilient, productive, and food-secure Nigeria.