Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have vowed to strengthen their bilateral relationship, focusing on boosting agriculture, trade, and economic opportunities.

The commitment came during a meeting between delegations from both countries led by their respective Ministers of Agriculture.

Senator Abubakar Kyari, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential and investment opportunities.

He emphasized that proper development could lead to self-sufficiency, exports, and economic growth.

This meeting follows a recent encounter between Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince. It underscores both nations’ commitment to fulfilling their earlier agreements.

Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources, Engr Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, stressed the importance of water for irrigation and expressed Nigeria’s willingness to collaborate for increased food production. He believes the partnership will also benefit sanitation and hygiene efforts.

Governor Abdullahi Suleiman of Kwara State, representing the Nigerian Governors Forum, emphasized the states’ control over land and their commitment to utilizing it for both domestic consumption and export-oriented agriculture.

Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, sees the partnership creating economic benefits and new jobs for both nations.

The Saudi delegation, led by Engr Abdulrahman Alfadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, seeks to solidify ties in areas of mutual advantage, including agriculture, investment, economic development, and job creation.

Business representatives also presented their ideas during the meeting.