The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Spanish Government have initiated moves to deepen cooperation in agriculture, livestock production and food security following a high-level meeting between Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, and Spain’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas Puchades.
The move was sequel to the Nigerian envoy’s courtesy visit to the Spanish minister on Thursday, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.
The discussions at the meeting focused on expanding collaboration in agro-food production, animal health, irrigation, agricultural technology and investment.
Puchades congratulated Ikpeazu on his appointment as Nigeria’s envoy to Spain and on the successful presentation of his Letters of Credence to King Felipe VI, pointing out that his assumption of duty provides an opportunity to further strengthen the existing cordial relations between Nigeria and Spain, particularly in agriculture and livestock.
- Advertisement -
The minister highlighted Spain’s experience in crop disease prevention, improved seedlings and modern agricultural technologies that had contributed to increased food and livestock production, pointing out the opportunities presented by Nigeria’s vast arable land for expanding agricultural production, developing value chains and improving food security.
The two leaders’ discussions also addressed food preservation and the reduction of post-harvest losses, with Spain highlighting technological approaches aimed at improving food management and reducing wastage.
In his remarks, the Nigerian Ambassador stressed that increased agricultural production remained a priority of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, given Nigeria’s large youth population and significant agricultural potential.
Ikpeazu explained that greater utilisation of Nigeria’s agricultural resources could strengthen food security, create employment opportunities and contribute to addressing irregular migration challenges.
He commended Spain’s innovations in improved seedlings, livestock development and food preservation, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to learn from and collaborate with Spanish institutions and investors.
In addition, he also highlighted successful Spanish investments in Nigeria, including GB Foods’ operations in Kebbi and Ogun States, where improved seedlings have reportedly contributed to significant increases in tomato yields.
The envoy expressed Nigeria’s interest in developing animal production for domestic consumption and export, while seeking stronger Spanish cooperation and investment in the sector.
The two leaders agreed on the importance of closer collaboration, technology transfer and investment promotion to unlock opportunities in Nigeria’s agricultural sector and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
