In a bid to upscale food production and enhance farmers’ productivity, Nigeria and Pakistan have resolved to strengthen their agricultural partnership. This was announced following a crucial meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Abdulahi, and the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Nigeria, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Sohail Ahmad Khan, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Shared Goals and Longstanding Relations
Dr. Abdulahi highlighted the similarities between the two nations and emphasized their long-standing diplomatic and bilateral relationship. He stated that this collaboration would aim to synergize efforts and contribute to the development of both countries’ economies.
“Nigeria is ready to partner with all our friends, by creating something that would work for the two countries,” he said. Abdulahi also reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing issues affecting Nigeria, including those exacerbated by climate change and insecurity.
Pakistan’s Contributions to Agriculture
The High Commissioner of Pakistan, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Sohail Ahmad Khan, accompanied by officials from the High Commission, expressed his country’s willingness to share expertise and solutions with Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“Our visit is to explore how we can offer solutions and learn from Nigeria’s agricultural practices,” said Khan. He further emphasized Pakistan’s leadership in global agricultural production:
- 5th largest producer of cotton
- 4th largest producer of sugar
- 8th largest producer of meat
- 10th largest producer of rice
He noted Pakistan’s advancements in agricultural research and innovation, which have made the country a significant player in the global agricultural market.
Training and Capacity Building
Khan highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange and capacity building as key components of the collaboration. He proposed that Nigerian professionals visit Pakistan to observe and adopt agricultural practices and technologies of interest.
“We are looking at offering you ways and means through which Nigeria can enhance its capacity building,” he said. This initiative aims to provide Nigerian farmers and researchers with training opportunities and access to cutting-edge innovations in agriculture.
Moving Forward
Both nations are optimistic about the outcomes of this partnership and the potential it holds for scaling up agricultural productivity on a larger scale. By sharing expertise and resources, Nigeria and Pakistan aim to strengthen their agricultural sectors and improve food security in both countries.
This collaboration underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing global challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, and sustainable development.
