Senator Kalu seeks establishment of Agricultural Research Council in Abia North, as bill passes first reading
By Ranmilowo Ojalumo -As part of efforts to strengthen agricultural research and productivity in Nigeria, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has sponsored a bill seeking to pave the way for the establishment of a federal institution in Ohafia, Abia State
Senator Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, spoke on Tuesday following the first reading of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, with the legislative reference SB 1083, which he sponsored in the Senate.
According to the former Abia State governor, the proposed legislation was aimed at advancing agricultural research, improving productivity and promoting national development.
“Agricultural productivity in our dear country is set to receive another significant boost following the Senate’s first reading of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (SB 1083), which I sponsored to pave way for the establishment of a Federal Institution in Ohafia,” he stated.
He described the bill as a key part of his legislative activities, adding that his commitment to serving his constituents remained unwavering.
“The bill formed a key part of my day’s legislative activities, reflecting my commitment to advancing agricultural research, strengthening productivity, and promoting national development,” Kalu said.
The senator’s legislative activities continued on Wednesday, when he joined his colleagues in adopting the report of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on the Federal Universities of Agriculture (Amendment) Act.
According to Kalu, the development represents another step towards strengthening agricultural education and promoting institutional development in the country.
“A key highlight of my legislative responsibilities today was joining my distinguished colleagues in adopting the report of the Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on the Federal Universities of Agriculture (Amendment) Act,” he said.
He added that the move reflected the Senate’s commitment to advancing the agricultural sector and supporting sustainable national growth.
“This marks another important step in our collective commitment to strengthening agricultural education, promoting institutional development, and advancing the agricultural sector for sustainable national growth,” he stated.
The proposed federal institution in Ohafia could create opportunities for agricultural research, education and skills development in Abia North, subject to the bill’s successful passage and implementation.
The two legislative developments come amid ongoing national efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity, improve food security and expand the role of research and education in the agricultural sector.
Kalu’s supporters have described the initiatives as further evidence of his commitment to attracting federal development projects and promoting policies that could benefit Abia North, arguing that his legislative engagements provide another reason he remains their preferred candidate for the district.
The senator reiterated his commitment to public service, stating that his “unwavering commitment to the service of our dear people remains unshaken and focused.”
