The representative of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Hon. Rufus Ojuawo, has said that the proposed Federal College of Agriculture and Forestry in Ise-Ekiti will unlock the state’s agricultural potential and position it as a major food production hub in Nigeria.

Ojuawo, who revealed this during a media briefing in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, noted that the bill he sponsored for the establishment of the college has been passed by the House of Representatives. He expressed optimism that it would soon scale through the Senate and receive presidential assent.

According to him, the institution will train skilled professionals to revitalize Nigeria’s agricultural sector and boost food security.

The lawmaker also applauded President Bola Tinubu for supporting grassroots development through the allocation of ₦1 billion per lawmaker in the 2025 budget for constituency projects.

Highlighting his legislative achievements, Ojuawo said he had sponsored three other key bills in the past two years, including an amendment to the TETFUND Act to support research in private institutions and another to improve the welfare and healthcare of military veterans.

“The establishment of the College in Ise-Ekiti is long overdue. Agriculture is our strength in this region, and I believe this initiative will drive economic growth and empower our people,” he said.

Ojuawo further outlined his contributions in health, education, rural development, and social welfare. In agriculture, he initiated cluster farming in Ogbese and Ise-Ekiti and distributed over 768 bags of 50kg fertilizers, along with farming tools such as sprayers, hoes, wheelbarrows, and rain gear.

“My goal is for our constituency to attain self-sufficiency in food production. That’s why I remain committed to supporting and empowering our farmers,” he added.

The retired Air Force officer assured constituents that more impactful projects are planned under the 2025 budget. He also pledged his continued dedication to progress in the constituency and reaffirmed his support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second term, praising the governor’s collaboration with federal lawmakers.