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The Federal Government and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia On Thursday, agreed to enhance their bilateral relations in order to tap into the vast potential of Nigeria, especially in the fields of agriculture, trade, and economic opportunities.
This commitment was made during a meeting in Abuja between a delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by its Hon. Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engr. Abdulrahman Alfadley, and a Nigerian delegation, led by the Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, Hon. Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and Chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF), Abdulrahman Abdullazaq.
During the meeting, Senator Abubakar Kyari emphasized Nigeria's abundant agricultural potential and investment opportunities. He stressed that if these resources are properly utilized, they could significantly increase food production for both domestic consumption and export, thereby boosting the country's economy.
He also mentioned that recent meetings between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia were part of a deliberate effort to strengthen food production and investment opportunities in Nigeria.
Prof. Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, highlighted the importance of water for irrigated agriculture and expressed Nigeria's willingness to provide necessary support to enhance food production and achieve food security under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
He also expressed optimism that the partnership would benefit Nigeria in the sanitation and hygiene sector.
Abdullahman Abdullazaq, Chairman of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum and Governor of Kwara State, also expressed support for the strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
