The federal government of Nigeria and the Indonesian government have recently formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing a coal-based fertiliser plant in Nigeria. The primary objective is to bolster agricultural production, thereby contributing to the enhancement of food security in the country.
The pivotal moment occurred during the signing ceremony of a production license agreement between the National Agency for Science and Engineering Technology (NASENI) and the Indonesian company, PT Saputra Global Harvest. The event, held in Abuja yesterday, marked a significant step towards technological collaboration for the production of coal-based fertiliser.
During the ceremony, Khalil Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NASENI, expressed optimism about the partnership with Saputra Harvest. He highlighted the potential for increased innovation, technology transfer, and industrialisation in Nigeria. Emphasising the importance of food security, Halilu noted that it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
President Tinubu’s vision encompasses not only making Nigeria self-sufficient in affordable food production but also positioning the nation as a surplus food exporter. Halilu underscored the pivotal role of agriculture in addressing unemployment and generating foreign exchange, thereby positively impacting the economy.
The agreement signed with Saputra covers three key areas: the supply of machinery and equipment for coal-based fertilizer production, capacity development involving the training of Nigerian personnel, and licensing permitting the production of coal-based fertiliser adhering to quality standards.
Dr. H. Usra Hendra Harahap, the Ambassador of Indonesia to Nigeria, also shared insights during the ceremony. He highlighted the MoU as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations, emphasizing their joint commitment to advancements in agriculture and technology.
The Indonesian Ambassador emphasised that the collaborative effort represents a fusion of expertise, innovation, and a shared vision for sustainable agriculture development. Describing the fertiliser plant as more than a facility, he stressed that it symbolises the fruitful partnership between Indonesia and Nigeria. The Ambassador expressed confidence in the substantial benefits that the collaboration with Saputra would bring to Nigeria’s agriculture sector, citing the incorporation of state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices.