The Nigerian government has called on Germany to support its food system as the country grapples with escalating food crisis, with food inflation hitting the rooftop.
Minister of Economic planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, made the call when he received German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms. Svenja Schulze, who was in his office on a courtesy visit.
The meeting focused on discussions regarding German cooperation with Nigeria and the exploration of priority areas for future bilateral collaboration.
Sen. Bagudu at the meeting stated that the engagement is part of the ongoing Development Cooperation Partnership between Nigeria and Germany, which has a rich history dating back to 1974 when the Technical Cooperation Agreement was initially signed.
The German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation is responsible for coordinating Germany’s development cooperation and currently oversees the collaboration with Nigeria.
Bagudu noted some areas of collaboration, which he said are key for Nigeria.
“Some key areas we are looking for support from the German government are in the areas of Sustainable Economic Development, Training and Employment, Transformation of Agri-Food Systems, Climate and Energy, Health, Social Protection, Population Policy, as well as Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention.”
He further stated that both nations will review and exchange views on future bilateral cooperation during their annual consultation.
In her earlier remarks, Germany’s Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms. Svenja Schulze said that her government was committed to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth, which is why it allocates funds annually through the Development Cooperation Partnership.
Ms. Svenja Schulze assured Bagudu of her government’s full support and commitment to the development of Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Nebeolisa Anako applauded the German government for their continuous support and contribution to the economic growth of the nation. He assured the team from Germany that Nigeria is a good place for them to invest.
The Director of International Cooperation in the Ministry, Dr. Samson Ebimaro emphasized more on the catalytic role of the private sector in Nigeria’s economic turnaround.
He further stated that the partnership aims to enhance various sectors for sustainable development, adding that a significant aspect of the discussion would be the ongoing review of the 1974 Technical Cooperation Agreement governing bilateral relations between both Countries.
