Nigeria and Cuba have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on food security and agricultural development.
Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria’s minister of agriculture and food security, made the announcement on behalf of the nation at the event, which was held at the Cuban Ministry of Agriculture in the presence of representatives from both nations, including Ben Okoye, Nigeria’s ambassador to Cuba, on the sidelines of the G77 + China Leaders’ Summit.
Recall that Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Nigerian delegation to the summit in the North American country.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) is a historic journey to strengthen agricultural ties between two countries.
Sen. Kyari praised Cuba’s willingness to collaborate with Nigeria, noting that both parties share a common vision for their people.
He expressed gratitude for the shared understanding of Nigeria’s pressing food and agricultural opportunities and challenges.
The minister also emphasised Nigeria’s demographic advantage, vast land resources, and enormous agricultural potential, promoting President Bola Tinubu’s vision for food and nutrition security.
“It was in this spirit that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development evolved into the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security,” he said.
With a focus on crucial areas like bio-fortification of agricultural produce, improvement of seeds and seedlings, mechanisation, and cutting-edge technologies for increased yields and decreased post-harvest losses, Kyari extended a hand of partnership to his Cuban counterpart.
Ydael Jesus Perez Brito, Cuba’s Minister of Agriculture, discussed the island nation’s agricultural prowess with the Nigerian delegation, noting that it has “over 500,000 hectares under cultivation” and is still “a global player in the export of tobacco, coffee, honey, and other commodities.”
He was delighted to have the chance to work with Nigeria and assured her that her nation would contribute significantly to the specified areas of cooperation.
The minister who was hosting emphasised the human resources in agriculture in his country as well as various models that had increased productivity.
He assured that his nation would use its wealth of expertise to help Nigeria achieve food and agricultural security.