The Israeli government has reiterated its commitment to deepen its bilateral relations with Nigeria in advancing entrepreneurial innovations and technologies.
Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, stated this at the 75 independence celebration, in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital
According to Ambassador Freeman, Israel stands tall in agro-based technology and water management through innovative approach in climate change, saying that the country would hold its maiden agric, water and climate change technology conference in 2024.
“With this initiatives through commitment and deeper bilateral relations, Nigeria would safeguard a brighter future for the young generation and even, those yet unborn. Since independence Israel had built modern technology and innovation in agriculture, cyber, health, education, homeland security, and many more that top lead globally.”
He pledged the Israeli government support to work with the president-elect, Bola Tinubu.
“We are excited to work with the president-elect, Sen. Bola Tinubu, in his administration to advance these issues and many more.”
The Ambassador disclosed that for 60years Israel and Nigeria have worked together in different fields, and in recent years Innovation Fellowship for Aspiring Inventors and Researchers, I-FAIR, has been flagship of our programmes.
The first two edition of the programme for Nigerian entrepreneurs provided young Nigerians with mentorship and tools needed to take their ideas from theories to practical.
He further said that many I-FAIR graduates now have various businesses with fellow Nigerians contributing to economic growth of this country.
“Our third edition of I-FAIR is launched today, we want young Nigerian entrepreneurs and innovators to apply”
Freeman added that “At the end of this year, we shall hold our first technology investment conference in Abuja, to bring together our technology experts from both countries.”
Also speaking at the event, the Nigerian Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen affirmed that both countries can benefit from each as she called for deepening bilateral ties.
“I believe by deepening our diplomatic relations with Israel we stand to gain a lot because Nigeria is blessed with many natural potential, as far as tourism is concerned, agriculture among other things. If Nigerians will put their mind to develop our tourism potential, we stand to gain a lot and get other countries to gain from what we are blessed with.” Tallen stated
Meanwhile, the Senator representing Adamawa North senatorial district, Elisha Abbo, maintained that to achieve meaningful growth, corruption must be tackled.
“We have a lot to learn from Israel as a nation, what we as a nation must begin to do is to fight corruption. The biggest enemy Nigeria has today is corruption, if we have to rebuild our own country Nigerians have to fight against corruption.” He said.
This year’s celebration was to commemorate the birth of the modern state of Israel and democracy since the official declaration by Ben Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister on May 14, 1948.
PIAK
