President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revamping Nigeria’s agricultural sector by eliminating bureaucratic barriers that hinder progress and investment.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, Tinubu emphasized the urgent need to streamline processes in order to unlock the country’s agricultural potential and achieve food sovereignty.
During the high-level meeting held at Copacabana Forte, Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to deepen collaborations with Brazil, especially in livestock farming, fisheries, and the blue economy. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu underscored the importance of food production not only for domestic sufficiency but also for export purposes.
“Nigeria is undergoing vital reforms to enhance global competitiveness,” Tinubu said. “Agriculture is an area where we hold a natural advantage. By cutting down bureaucracy, we can fast-track projects that support food security and economic growth.”
Tinubu praised Brazil’s globally recognized achievements in food and agriculture, stating that the South American country’s research and development systems serve as a model for others. “Brazil has excelled in agricultural innovation. We are keen on working with your institutions to elevate our productivity, particularly in livestock,” he added.
The Nigerian leader also stressed the importance of states in driving agricultural development. He noted that the role of sub national governments is crucial in creating jobs and generating resources through food production. Brazilian President Lula da Silva responded positively, promising to expedite all outstanding agreements and update Memorandums of Understanding during Tinubu’s next visit.
Lula emphasized the importance of cutting through bureaucratic delays in bilateral dealings. “We want results. Let’s remove red tape and ensure that our research institutions work hand in hand to support livestock and agricultural development in Nigeria,” he said.
Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, echoed the President’s position, noting that food security is a top priority for Tinubu’s administration. He pointed out Nigeria’s strengths in fertiliser production and expressed optimism about future local and international partnerships to bolster the sector.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, identified three key areas for cooperation with Brazil: disease management, sanitary protocols, and genetic research. These areas, he said, will serve as foundations for a robust and sustainable livestock industry.
Several Nigerian state governors, including those from Benue, Ogun, Niger, Delta, and Lagos, were present at the meeting. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun remarked that states are aligned with the federal strategy and ready to play a supporting role in transforming the sector.
The meeting also included the participation of key federal officials such as Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar and National Intelligence Agency Director General Mohammed Mohammed, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Nigeria-Brazil partnership in agriculture and beyond.
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