Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has advocated for the strengthening of bilateral relations with the Irish Government in the field of agriculture to bolster food and nutrition security in Nigeria.
This appeal was made during a recent visit by a delegation from the Irish Ministry for Agriculture, Food, and Marine, led by Secretary-General Mr. Brendan Gleeson, to Dr. Umakhihe’s office in Abuja.
Dr. Umakhihe emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture in the Nigerian economy and underscored the importance of fostering a strong working relationship between Nigeria and Ireland to promote trade and investments in the agricultural sector. He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent declaration of an agricultural and food security emergency and his commitment to implementing programs and policies aimed at enhancing food security, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Furthermore, Dr. Umakhihe acknowledged Nigeria’s status as the most populous country in Africa, blessed with arable land suitable for various agricultural value chains and a track record of success in grain production, horticulture, livestock, and more.
He recognized Ireland’s significant achievements in the production of milk, wheat, beef, potatoes, and poultry, expressing Nigeria’s willingness to collaborate to achieve food and nutrition security and sustainability.
Dr. Umakhihe proposed the establishment of a Technical Committee comprising members from both nations to refine the issues discussed.
In response, Mr. Brendan Gleeson, Secretary-General of the Irish Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Marine, emphasized the mutual interest of both countries in food security, highlighting their shared goals for a strong and impactful relationship.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s challenges and emphasized the importance of research, education, and advice for farmers. Mr. Gleeson looked forward to a strengthened bilateral relationship that would enhance food and nutrition security for both nations.
His Excellency, Peter Ryan, the Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, underscored Ireland’s food security and stressed the need for Nigeria to work on areas such as research and development, capacity building, cattle breeding, and food marketing to achieve similar levels of food security.
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