President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a bold commitment to dismantle all bureaucratic roadblocks stalling Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, including the livestock sector, in a renewed push for food sovereignty and export expansion.
This strong declaration came during a high-level bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the historic Copacabana Forte, accompanied by top cabinet members and governors from both nations.
According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed concern over how excessive bureaucracy has hindered Nigeria’s agricultural potential for too long. He reassured that major reforms are already in motion to reposition the country’s economy, with agriculture—one of Nigeria’s strongest sectors—at the core.
Tinubu further revealed that all technical delays in bilateral agreements between Nigeria and Brazil would be removed swiftly. Key focus areas include trade, aviation, energy transition, mining, blue economy, and natural resources.
Commending Brazil’s status as a global leader in agricultural innovation, Tinubu emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in revolutionizing Nigeria’s poultry, fisheries, and cattle-rearing industries. He added that the blue economy offers immense opportunities for growth through sustained collaboration.
Brazilian President Lula assured that all pending agreements will be fully formalized during Tinubu’s next visit, vowing to fast-track joint efforts and collaboration between Brazilian research institutions and Nigeria’s livestock industry.
Nigeria’s Agriculture Minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, stressed the country’s advantage in fertilizer production, which could be maximized through international partnerships. Meanwhile, Livestock Development Minister Idi Mukhtar Maiha highlighted three key areas of Brazil-Nigeria collaboration: disease control, veterinary services, and advanced genetic research.
Governors from Benue, Ogun, Niger, Delta, and Lagos were in attendance, alongside Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and NIA DG Mohammed Mohammed. Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun affirmed states’ dedication to federal reforms and hailed the inclusion of a business forum as a catalyst for agricultural investment and innovation.
