By Abdullahi Lukman
Nigeria and Brazil have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance agricultural development and food security, marking a significant step in South–South cooperation.
The agreement was finalized during the II Brazil-Africa Dialogue on Food Security, Fight Against Hunger, and Rural Development, held in Brasília.
The MoU outlines comprehensive collaboration in key agricultural areas such as sustainable crop production, livestock genetics, agroforestry, quarantine protocols, and food processing.
Notable components include soybean value chain development, cassava technology transfer, and modern livestock breeding methods.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Abubakar Kyari, emphasized the urgency of transforming food systems to meet the demands of a growing population and climate challenges. “Food security is a matter of national survival,” he stated.
The minister also highlighted existing bilateral efforts, particularly the Green Imperative Programme, a mechanization initiative in partnership with Brazil’s Fundação Getulio Vargas.
He pointed to domestic reforms like new ministries for Livestock Development and the Blue Economy, and the 2023 National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP).
Sen. Kyari called on international partners to go beyond trade, advocating for co-owned research, joint innovation hubs, and inclusive finance models that prioritize impact and farmer empowerment.
The MoU signals a shared commitment by Nigeria and Brazil to drive agricultural transformation through innovation, cooperation, and sustainable development.