Nigeria, Cuba sign pact on food security, improved agriculture

Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Cuba on food security and agriculture advancement.

Struck on the sidelines of the G77 + China Leaders’ Summit, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, on behalf of the country at the event, which took place at the Ministry of Agriculture of Cuba in the presence of officials from both countries, including Nigeria’s envoy to the country, Ben Okoye.

Recall that Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Nigerian delegation to the summit in the North American nation.

The Expression of Interest (EOI) is a historic journey to strengthening the ties between two countries in the field of agriculture.

Sen. Kyari lauded the willingness of the Cuban government to partner with Nigeria, noting that both parties share a common vision for their people.

He expressed joy for the shared insights into Nigeria’s pressing food and agricultural opportunities and challenges.

The minister also underlined the most populous black nation’s demographic advantage, vast land resources, huge agricultural potential, promoting President Bola Tinubu’s vision for food and nutrition security.

“It was in this spirit that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development evolved into the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security,” he said.

Kyari extended a hand of partnership to his Cuban counterpart, with a focus on vital areas such as bio-fortification of agricultural produce, improvement of seeds and seedlings, mechanization, as well as cutting-edge technologies for increased yields and reduced post-harvest losses.

In his remarks, Cuba’s Minister of Agriculture, Ydael Jesus Perez Brito, told the Nigerian team about the island nation’s agricultural prowess, adding that the country has “over 500,000 hectares under cultivation” and remains “a global player in the export of tobacco, coffee, honey and other commodities.”

He expressed delight at the opportunity to partner with Nigeria, stating that his country would provide impactful cooperation in the identified areas captured in the pact.

The host minister highlighted his nation’s agricultural human capital and different models that had raised its productivity.

He assured of his country’s readiness to deploy its wealth of experience to assist Nigeria achieve agriculture and food security.