By Eniola Arowolo
In a follow-up meeting to the one held on May 10, 2024, the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Saudi Arabian Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture have established a technical committee to address the specific needs of both nations.
According to Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, “The technical committee, comprising government officials and private sector representatives from both countries, has made considerable progress and submitted an interim report. We are now working to meet the standards articulated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly regarding standardization and other critical aspects.”
The committee, Senator Abubakar revealed, aims to identify and align the agricultural requirements and capabilities of both countries, facilitating a bilateral partnership that benefits private sector entities in Nigeria.
These entities will provide services to Saudi Arabia, generating export proceeds and promoting economic growth.
“The Government of Nigeria is not providing direct funding to these private sector operations. Instead, we are focusing on establishing and facilitating markets identified by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, working towards achieving necessary standardization and protection measures,” Senator Abubakar said.
In response to Nigeria’s needs, the Government of Saudi Arabia will soon extend support in areas such as mechanization, agricultural equipment, and agricultural financing through private sector arrangements.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in strengthening agricultural ties between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, promoting economic growth and development in both nations.
