In a bid to strengthen agricultural development and ensure sustainable food security, Nasarawa State in North-Central Nigeria and Bengo Province of Angola have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agriculture.
The agreement was signed in Lafia by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, and the Governor of Bengo Province, Dr Maria Antonia Nelumba. Both leaders stated that implementation of the MoU would commence immediately, with a strong focus on human capital development through training.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Governor Sule expressed appreciation to the Bengo Province Governor and her delegation for their commitment and for identifying practical areas of cooperation that would become a reality.
He noted that both regions possess unique comparative advantages in agriculture, which could be harnessed for mutual benefit.
We have identified areas where Bengo Province has advantages over Nasarawa State in agriculture, and also areas where Nasarawa State has an edge. By combining these strengths, we can make significant progress,” he said.
Governor Sule stressed that implementation was more critical than the signing itself.
“While the signing of the agreement is important, implementing it is even more important to us,” he added.
He further explained that both parties share similar interests in agricultural operations, particularly in onshore activities, noting that Nasarawa State is fully committed to onshore agricultural development. According to him, the best starting point for the partnership is capacity building through training and human capital development.
In her remarks, the Governor of Bengo Province, Dr Maria Antonia Nelumba, thanked the Nasarawa State Government for the warm reception accorded her delegation since their arrival in Nigeria.
She said the agreement was a reflection of the friendship established between the two regions during earlier engagements in Bengo Province, which had now translated into concrete prospects for bilateral cooperation.
“Today is a historic day for our two provinces because we are taking practical steps to achieve our shared goals. As outlined in the agreement, we must move forward in the areas of economic, environmental and social development,” she said.
Dr Nelumba emphasised that the signing of the MoU symbolises the brotherhood and solidarity between the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Angola.
She noted that Nasarawa State has vast potential in agriculture, mining and energy, describing these sectors as key areas for enhanced cooperation.
According to her, the agreement covers collaboration in economics, environment, urban management, agriculture, agro-industry, culture, sports, technical training and education, tourism, and professional development.
She added that the MoU would be implemented through jointly agreed actions, projects and programmes, including the exchange of technical information, establishment of direct partnerships, and identification of potential investors and development partners.
Olusola Akintonde