By Nkechi Eze
The Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Dr. Abubakar Adamu Dabban, has expressed satisfaction with the rapid progress recorded by the Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin-Kowa (FECOHORT), urging its leadership and staff to continue working as a unified team to achieve lasting institutional success. Dr. Dabban gave the charge on Friday during his maiden familiarisation visit to the college in Dadin-Kowa, Gombe State.
In a statement issued by the Head of Public Relations, ARCN, Khadijat O. Ameen, the Executive Secretary acknowledged that deploying Dr. Umar A. Umar to serve as Acting Provost was a difficult but strategic decision, but noted that the achievements recorded within just three months of his leadership have vindicated the Council’s choice. He stated that although the decision to appoint Dr. Umar in acting capacity came with initial concerns, his performance so far has demonstrated capability, commitment and vision. Dr. Dabban advised the management to apply for waivers to address outstanding payments for casual staff and other internal expenditures, noting that absorbing qualified casual workers into the federal payroll would ease financial pressure while retaining competent personnel within the institution.
He further called for sustained publicity and deeper engagement with the host community, disclosing that efforts are underway to ensure ARCN colleges are included in upcoming TETFund intervention programmes, with a draft Memorandum of Understanding currently receiving attention. The Executive Secretary encouraged the college to expand its academic offerings and strengthen vocational training programmes such as tailoring and related trades to meet local and national needs.
Speaking in alignment with Dr. Dabban’s remarks, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Dr. Aliyu Shuaibu Madugu, stated that funds anticipated under the proposed TETFund partnership would be dedicated strictly to research and staff development. ARCN’s Legal Adviser, Barrister Shehu Aliyu, also urged the management, staff and unions to operate in strict compliance with the law establishing the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria to minimise litigation and promote institutional stability.
During the visit, the Acting Provost, Dr. Umar A. Umar, briefed the Executive Secretary on key achievements recorded within his first 90 days in office. He highlighted the improved visibility of the college through renewed engagement with traditional rulers, the host community, media organisations and social media platforms, all of which have contributed to increased student interest and better public awareness. He noted strengthened internal communication among management, unions, academic and non-academic staff, and casual workers, as well as improvements in security and the activation of official communication channels. Dr. Umar also reported the reactivation of previously abandoned infrastructure, including greenhouses and other vital facilities, and announced the repair of three staff buses to reduce transportation challenges. He said the establishment of the Academic Planning Unit referred to as the “engine room” of the institution and the implementation of the 500 Farmers Initiative for seedling production are among the notable achievements under his administration. He, however, appealed for intervention to address the college’s low overhead allocation, noting that the institution currently borrows funds to pay casual and security personnel.
Members of management and heads of units commended Dr. Umar’s leadership style, describing it as transformative. The Deputy Provost recommended that he be confirmed as substantive Provost, assuring that all ongoing projects would be completed within one month. He also encouraged staff to sustain the harmonious working environment established under former Provost, Dr. Babaworu Mamoud Ali, and strengthened under the current acting leadership.
The familiarisation visit also included a courtesy call on the Emir of Yamaltu, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu, who commended the Executive Secretary for repositioning the college and prayed for a smooth and productive working relationship between ARCN and the Acting Provost. The event ended with an inspection tour of college facilities by the Executive Secretary and his delegation.
