Tinubu, Lula pledge to eliminate barriers in Nigeria-Brazil agricultural cooperation
By Kunle Sanni –
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to reforming its agricultural sector by eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks hindering food production and export. He made the pledge during a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Saturday in Rio de Janeiro.
At the high-level meeting held at the historic Copacabana Forte, both leaders discussed expanding cooperation in agriculture, food security, energy, and trade. Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s readiness for immediate collaboration, especially in livestock development and agribusiness.
“Our government is determined to remove all technical delays and bureaucratic hurdles that have slowed progress in agriculture,” Tinubu said. “We are fully committed to building a strong, results-driven partnership with Brazil.”
The Nigerian leader praised Brazil’s advancements in agricultural research and food systems, highlighting its global leadership in food production. He also identified areas for cooperation, including poultry, cattle rearing, fisheries, and the blue economy.
President Lula welcomed Nigeria’s willingness to partner and promised to update and finalize all existing agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two nations. He stressed the importance of removing red tape to unlock new opportunities.
“Our research institutions are ready to work with Nigeria to enhance livestock health, breeding, and productivity,” Lula said, pledging support through scientific collaboration.
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, noted the role of international partnerships in achieving the country’s food security goals. He added that Nigeria’s strength in fertilizer production could be further leveraged.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, outlined three priority areas for collaboration: animal health and disease management, sanitary services, and genetic research to improve livestock breeds.
