Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has developed an ambitious and integrated blueprint aimed at transforming agriculture and human capa...
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has developed an ambitious and integrated blueprint aimed at transforming agriculture and human capacity development in Zamfara State.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, presented the proposal to Governor Dauda Lawal during the commissioning of an upgraded departmental library at the university’s Department of Political Science and International Studies on Thursday. The refurbished facility was funded by the governor, an alumnus of the department who graduated in 1988.
Speaking during the presentation, Prof. Ahmed said the blueprint was designed as a unified and evidence-based intervention developed jointly by ABU’s major research and training institutes— the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Institute of Education and Institute of Administration.
He noted that the framework comes at no cost to the Zamfara State government, describing it as the university’s contribution to the state’s ongoing reform agenda.
According to him, the proposal integrates crop research, climate resilience, livestock innovation, extension delivery and human capital development into a single transformative agenda that seeks to rebuild agricultural productivity and strengthen community resilience to climate shocks and insecurity.
Prof. Ahmed explained that the intervention would adopt a train-the-trainer model and would be delivered largely through the virtual platforms of the ABU Distance Learning Centre to ensure wide reach and sustainability.
“The goal is to restore crop and livestock productivity, enhance resilience among households and communities, and equip extension agents with modern skills,” he said. He added that the programme also targets strengthening institutional capacity across ministries, the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), cooperatives, civil service and teacher training systems.
The Vice-Chancellor further revealed that the proposal includes comprehensive training for senior, middle, and directorate-level civil servants, aligning with the Zamfara government’s commitment to merit-based reforms. He commended Governor Lawal for introducing examinations for the appointment of permanent secretaries and for prioritising capacity building for procurement officers, auditors and administrative personnel.
In his remarks, Governor Dauda Lawal expressed profound appreciation to ABU management, describing the blueprint as a significant contribution to the development of his home state. He reiterated his gratitude to the university for “shaping his life,” pledging continued support to his alma mater.
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