By Idris Umar, Zaria At the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony held at the College Square in Samaru, Zaria, the Director of the Di...
By Idris Umar, Zaria
At the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony held at the College Square in Samaru, Zaria, the Director of the Division of Agricultural Colleges at Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Bashir Ahmed Babajji, renewed calls for increased government funding to strengthen agricultural education in Nigeria.
Professor Babajji expressed concern over persistent funding gaps affecting agricultural colleges, noting that modern facilities, equipment, and infrastructure are critical for effective teaching, learning, and research. He appealed to governments at all levels, as well as non-governmental organisations, alumni, and philanthropists, to support ongoing efforts to improve institutional standards.
Despite financial constraints, he revealed that the college has made notable progress through renovations, restoration of internet services, and the execution of some capital projects. However, he added that several initiatives remain pending due to delayed funding.
Addressing newly admitted National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) students, Babajji urged them to demonstrate discipline, integrity, and dedication to practical learning. He emphasised that agriculture remains fundamental to human existence—providing food, clothing, shelter, and medicine—and noted that the college’s training is designed to equip students with hands-on skills in farming, natural resource management, and climate-resilient agricultural systems.
He warned that students must uphold both character and academic standards, stressing that violations of the matriculation oath could result in the forfeiture of admission.
In his remarks, the Provost, Professor Usman Ibrahim, described matriculation as a defining moment that signifies a commitment to excellence, discipline, and ethical conduct.
He highlighted the institution’s long-standing legacy, established in 1921 as one of the oldest agricultural colleges in Nigeria, and reaffirmed its focus on practical, market-oriented education. According to him, students will gain hands-on experience through demonstration farms, laboratories, workshops, and field activities covering crop production, animal husbandry, agribusiness, and modern agricultural technologies.
Professor Ibrahim also assured students of access to internships, job placement opportunities, and entrepreneurial development programmes aimed at producing self-reliant and globally competitive graduates.
He further noted recent recognition by CESVO, where he was honoured as Best and Corruption-Free Provost under the Integrity Icons of Nigeria Programme, with several staff members also commended for ethical service.
On student welfare, he pointed to the activities of the Students’ Integrity Club, which promotes leadership, discipline, and ethical behaviour. He also warned against examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse, and other anti-social activities that could undermine students’ academic and professional futures.
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