President Bola Tinubu has committed to removing bureaucratic obstacles hindering the growth of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, including livestock production, as part of broader efforts to achieve food sovereignty and expand export capabilities.
This pledge came during a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Copacabana Forte, where both leaders were joined by key cabinet members.
According to a statement by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu criticised the slow pace of agricultural progress due to excessive red tape, affirming that reforms are already underway to enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness—especially in agriculture, a sector where the country holds a comparative advantage.
“All technical details in our bilateral agreements will be streamlined and fast-tracked,” Tinubu stated, highlighting areas of cooperation such as trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agriculture, mining, and natural resource development.
He praised Brazil’s global standing in agricultural research and food production, stressing the value of strategic partnerships in boosting Nigeria’s poultry, fisheries, and cattle industries. He also noted the potential of the blue economy for long-term collaboration with Brazil.
Tinubu underscored the important role of state governments in supporting federal efforts to transform agriculture into a key engine of employment and economic growth.
In response, President Lula pledged that outstanding agreements with Nigeria would be updated and finalised during Tinubu’s next visit. He acknowledged the importance of cutting bureaucracy to advance cooperation and promised to connect Brazilian research institutions with Nigerian counterparts, particularly in livestock development.
Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, reaffirmed the administration’s focus on food security, noting the country’s strength in fertiliser production as a strategic asset for international partnerships.
Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, identified three priority areas for collaboration with Brazil: animal health and disease control, sanitary services, and genetic research for improved breeds.
Among the Nigerian state governors present were Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos). Other top officials included Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and National Intelligence Agency Director General Mohammed Mohammed.
Governor Abiodun expressed the states’ commitment to supporting federal agricultural reforms. He also noted that the inclusion of a business forum during Tinubu’s state visit would attract new investments and accelerate progress in the sector.