In a move to bolster the Federal Government’s dedication to transforming agriculture and ensuring food security, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON, officially welcomed Sooko Tajudeen Olaniyi Lawal as the new Board Chairman of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. Sooko Lawal, who is also the Osun State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was inaugurated during a ceremony at the Ministry of Agriculture headquarters in Abuja.
This event marked an important step in aligning vital agricultural institutions with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The minister highlighted that appointing Sooko Lawal and the other board members goes beyond mere formality; it’s a strategic move aimed at accelerating sustainable agricultural development and boosting food security throughout the country.
While speaking to the newly inaugurated board members, Senator Kyari urged them to infuse innovation, accountability, and results-oriented leadership into their roles. He stressed that the agricultural sector is a key pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification and requires a patriotic commitment, strategic planning, and operational excellence.
“It’s crucial that you align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, especially in areas like food sufficiency, mechanized farming, and expanding agribusiness. Institutions such as the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, should evolve into hubs for research, training, and the advancement of agricultural knowledge in Nigeria,” the Minister emphasized.
In his acceptance speech, Sooko Lawal expressed heartfelt thanks to President Tinubu for the trust placed in him and to the Minister for the chance to serve in such a vital sector. He viewed the appointment as a call to action and committed to collaborating with stakeholders to elevate the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, into a leading institution for agricultural education and innovation.
“I’m truly honored by this national call to serve. We’re committed to working hard to further the institution’s mission and make it a leading example of agricultural excellence in Nigeria and West Africa,” Lawal expressed.
The inauguration was attended by senior officials from the Ministry, political allies, and supporters. It’s worth noting that President Tinubu’s appointment of Sooko Lawal was met with widespread celebration in Osun State, where many hailed it as a well-deserved acknowledgment of a proven grassroots politician and administrator.
This recent development is viewed by many analysts as part of President Tinubu’s strategic effort to align key political figures with national development goals, especially in the crucial area of food security.
