Nigeria and Brazil Forge Stronger Ties in Agriculture and Livestock Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has embarked on a two-day state visit to Brazil at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with both leaders pledging to strengthen bilateral relations in key sectors, particularly aviation, agriculture, and livestock development. The visit is already producing landmark agreements, including the restoration of direct flights between Rio de Janeiro and Lagos through Brazil’s Varig Air, alongside Nigerian carriers Air Peace and Caverton. Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, is expected to sign the agreement on behalf of the country during the summit.

Source: Federal Radio Corporation 

While aviation is a critical step forward, agriculture and livestock development form the centerpiece of this renewed cooperation. One of the most ambitious projects under discussion is the Green Imperative Partnership (GIP), a US$1.1 billion programme designed to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector through mechanisation. The initiative will provide 10,000 tractors and 50,000 units of equipment to be assembled locally, a move President Tinubu says will create more than 100,000 direct jobs and millions of indirect opportunities, while reshaping the country’s farming landscape.

Special Adviser to the President, Sunday Dare, described the partnership as a groundbreaking step that will not only modernize farming practices but also bolster food security. He emphasized that the GIP reflects a broader commitment to tackling challenges shared by both nations, including climate change, technological advancement, and sustainable development. Tinubu added that Brazil’s expertise in livestock farming would be vital in building Nigeria’s recently established Ministry of Livestock Development, ensuring the country can meet the growing demand for animal protein and stimulate rural economic growth.

Although trade volumes between the two nations have fallen in recent years—from US$9 billion a decade ago to US$1.6 billion in 2023—Tinubu remains optimistic about reversing the trend. He noted that Nigeria’s non-oil exports to Brazil have risen significantly, with US$0.62 billion worth of goods exported in October 2024 alone. His target is to push bilateral trade beyond US$2 billion in the near term and reach US$3.5 billion by 2030, with agriculture and agro-processing leading the way.

Both leaders believe the restoration of direct flights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) will unlock new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment. Tinubu described it as a game-changer that will lower costs, boost connectivity, and cement Brazil’s role as a strategic partner for Nigeria. With Brazil’s advanced agricultural technology and Nigeria’s vast arable land, the collaboration is being hailed as a turning point that could reshape the future of agricultural and livestock development across the Global South.