Senate Passes Agricultural Revolution Bill for Second Reading

Senate Approves Agricultural Revolution Bill

On Wednesday, 4 November 2026, the Nigerian Senate passed the Agricultural Revolution Bill, SB.1082, for a second reading. The legislation was sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin and was considered in a plenary session presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The legislation aims to create a thorough statutory structure dedicated to upgrading and modernizing the agricultural industry in Nigeria. Key topics addressed within the text include ensuring food availability, adopting machinery, managing water resources, securing capital for farming, developing agro-industries, and implementing farming methods that withstand climate changes. The approval of this measure occurred after Jibrin temporarily pulled it back earlier in the week due to issues regarding how it was written and distributed. Jibrin led the debate, arguing that the bill would review the sector, introduce necessary reforms and set the country on a path to an agricultural revolution. He highlighted the decline of Nigeria’s agricultural production systems and the need for a collaborative effort between the legislature, the executive and other stakeholders. The bill was seconded by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno, who said the legislation would provide the legal foundation needed to diversify the economy and modernise agriculture. Additional senators who backed the initiative were Babangida Hussaini from Jigawa North-West, Anthony Okorie Ani from Ebonyi South, a professor specializing in agricultural extension, and Adeniyi Adegbonmire Ayodele representing Ondo Central.

Background

Nigeria’s agricultural sector has long been a cornerstone of the national economy, supplying raw materials for industry and contributing to food security. In recent years, productivity has fallen and the sector has become increasingly dependent on imports, raising concerns over rising food prices and food insecurity. Formally named the Agricultural Revolution Bill, which outlines a legal structure for modernizing farming, boosting productivity, and supporting rural development, this document is part of a wider strategy to make agriculture a primary engine for economic expansion. The bill was drafted with input from various stakeholders and was intended to complement the reform initiatives of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. It aims to address critical challenges in the sector and to reposition agriculture for sustainable growth.

Why it Matters

The bill’s passage is significant for several reasons. First, it provides a legal framework that could improve access to financing for farmers and agribusinesses, potentially boosting investment in the sector. Second, by promoting mechanisation and irrigation, the legislation could increase agricultural productivity and reduce dependence on imports. Third, the focus on agro‑industrialisation and rural development could create jobs and stimulate economic activity in rural areas. The bill also addresses climate resilience, a growing concern as Nigeria faces the impacts of climate change on agriculture. By encouraging climate‑resilient farming practices, the legislation could help safeguard food security for the country’s population.

What Happens Next

Following the second reading, the bill will proceed to the next stage of the legislative process, which includes further debate, possible amendments and a final vote. No specific dates for the next stages have been announced in the sources. The Senate’s approval marks a key milestone in the bill’s journey, but the legislation will still need to be reviewed and potentially amended before it can become law.

Advocates for the legislation expect it to spark further conversations about the direction of farming in Nigeria, enabling various parties to share their insights and knowledge to help realize the intended changes.