President Bola Tinubu has committed Nigeria to dismantling all obstacles hindering its agricultural potential, particularly in livestock production. This declaration, aimed at achieving food sovereignty and expanding global exports, came during a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Lula da Silva at the Copacabana Forte in Brazil.
In a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted that “excessive bureaucracy had delayed progress in agriculture.” He affirmed Nigeria’s ongoing reforms to ensure the sector becomes globally competitive, recognising agriculture as a key area where Nigeria possesses a natural competitive advantage that can be unlocked through strategic partnerships.
Tinubu assured his Brazilian counterpart that “All technicalities in agreements between the two countries will be streamlined and fast-tracked in trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural development, mining, and natural resources exploration.” He commended Brazil’s leadership in agricultural research, calling the nation a “model in food production and export.”
Brazilian President Lula da Silva exchange pleasantries with Nigerian delegation in Brazil
President Tinubu stated that Nigeria is increasing investments in poultry, fisheries, and cattle rearing to boost food supply and create jobs. He also emphasised Nigeria’s “blue economy” as offering significant potential for long-term collaboration with Brazil in marine and aquatic resources.
The President urged immediate action from both federal and state governments to drive food production across the nation, underscoring the crucial role of state governments in transforming agriculture into a major source of employment and national revenue.
President Lula da Silva echoed Tinubu’s urgency, pledging to regularise and update all agreements during Tinubu’s next visit to Brazil. He called for the removal of bureaucracy and assured Nigeria of Brazil’s institutional collaboration to improve livestock farming systems.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture, reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to food security through global and local partnerships, pointing to Nigeria’s advantage in fertiliser production as a ready asset for agricultural growth. Idi Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, identified animal health, sanitation, and genetic research as three priority areas for Brazil-Nigeria cooperation.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State noted that the planned Nigeria-Brazil business forum is expected to inject new ideas and investment into the agricultural sector. Onanuga confirmed the presence of Governors from Benue, Ogun, Niger, Delta, and Lagos States at the meeting, underscoring sub-national support for Tinubu’s agricultural initiatives.
Other key officials present at the bilateral meeting included Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammed Mohammed, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).
