In a bid to fortify agricultural ties, Nigeria and Cuba have formalized an agricultural partnership. The Memorandum of Understanding, focused on enhancing food security and advancing agriculture, was signed at the G77 + China Leaders’ Summit. Olusola Abiola, the Director Information of the Vice President’s Office, described this collaboration as a pivotal step to fortify Nigeria-Cuba agricultural relations.
Senator Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, officiated the signing in Cuba’s Ministry of Agriculture. Appreciating Cuba’s willingness for the partnership, Kyari emphasized the mutual vision both nations harbor for their populace. He elaborated on Nigeria’s demographic strengths, vast agricultural potential, and land resources, reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mission for food and nutrition security.
The agreement encompasses various areas:
- Bio-fortification of crops.
- Enhancement of agricultural seeds and seedlings.
- Mechanization in agriculture.
- Innovative technologies to amplify yields.
- Mitigating post-harvest wastages.
Additionally, Nigeria aims to fortify ties with Cuba in poultry, livestock, and fisheries domains. The accord also delves into veterinary medicine, vaccine development, artificial insemination, and pasture development to counteract challenges stemming from inefficient cattle open grazing.
Ydael Jesus Perez Brito, Cuba’s Minister of Agriculture, illuminated on Cuba’s agricultural might, which spans over 500,000 hectares. As a dominant exporter of commodities like tobacco, coffee, and honey, Brito voiced enthusiasm about collaborating with Nigeria. Highlighting Cuba’s agricultural human capital and practices, he ensured the nation’s expertise would aid Nigeria in achieving its agricultural goals.
This partnership promises mutual benefits, encompassing agricultural sustainability, knowledge exchange, and technology transfer. Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, led Nigeria’s delegation, which also included H.E. Ben Okoyen, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cuba.
