Tinubu vows to dismantle barriers to Nigeria’s agricultural growth

The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has pledged to remove all obstacles limiting Nigeria’s agricultural potential, especially in livestock production, as part of his administration’s goal of achieving food sovereignty and boosting exports

During a bilateral meeting with Brazilian President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, on Saturday at Copacabana Forte, Tinubu emphasised the need for urgent agricultural reforms. “Excessive bureaucracy has delayed progress,” said Tinubu, assuring Nigeria is working to make the sector globally competitive. "All technicalities in agreements between the two countries will be streamlined and fast-tracked in trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural development, mining, and natural resources exploration," he added. 

He praised Brazil’s leadership in agricultural research, calling the country a model in food production and exports. He also highlighted Nigeria’s investment in livestock, including poultry, fisheries, and cattle, which aims to create jobs and enhance food supply.

Tinubu pointed to Nigeria’s blue economy as a new frontier for collaboration in marine and aquatic resources. “State governments must act swiftly to drive food production nationwide,” he urged.

Lula da Silva echoed Tinubu’s urgency, promising to update all bilateral agreements and cut through red tape. “Our institutions will work with Nigeria to improve livestock farming systems,” he assured. 

Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to food security through global partnerships, noting Nigeria’s fertiliser production advantage.

Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development, highlighted animal health, sanitation, and genetic research as key areas for Brazil-Nigeria cooperation.

Governors from Benue, Ogun, Niger, Delta, and Lagos, along with Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammed Mohammed, Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, were present, underscoring strong national backing for Tinubu’s agricultural reforms.