Nigeria and Belgium are set to deepen economic cooperation, focusing on agriculture and food security as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, announced this on Tuesday following a meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt.
The discussions, held in Abuja, explored strategies for collaboration in boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring stable food supply chains. According to a statement released by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, both parties expressed commitment to leveraging expertise and investment opportunities to drive food security initiatives.
During the meeting, Edun provided insights into Nigeria’s improving economic landscape, noting a decline in inflation, greater price stability, and increased savings in the federation account. He maintained that fostering international partnerships is key to sustaining these positive economic indicators and ensuring long-term growth in the agricultural sector.
Belgium, known for its advanced agricultural technologies and efficient supply chain systems, is expected to play a critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s food production capabilities. Leenknegt reaffirmed Belgium’s readiness to share expertise and facilitate investments that would help modernize Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
The meeting also touched on trade facilitation and economic policies that could improve market access for Nigerian agricultural products in Europe. Both parties acknowledged that a well-structured partnership could lead to job creation, improved food production, and a more resilient economy.