Egypt pledges support to Nigeria’s water, food security mandate
By Tosin Kolade
The Government of Egypt has announced its commitment to help Nigeria achieve its water resources and food security goals in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.
This was the thrust when Mr Moustafa Awad, the Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev in Abuja and made available in a statement on Friday.
According to him, both countries enjoy cordial relationships in many areas, saying such cooperation had seen a positive impact in their citizens’ lives.
Awad said his country would continue the partnership in various aspects of water management, flood management, Irrigation, Crop cultivation, and Sanitation.
He highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding Public Private Partnerships with Rice Farmers Association and other stakeholders in Nigeria, with focus on areas such as Animal husbandry and food production.
The ambassador said finalisation is expected soon.
The Minister noted the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration to ensure the success of its ‘Food Security Mandate’ and ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’.
Utsev said the pivotal role of water resources in achieving food security and overall economic stability could not be overlooked.
He highlighted the ministry’s inclusion of ‘Sanitation’ in its name as timely, expressing optimism about advancements in this critical area.
He however accepted the Ambassador’s invitation to the upcoming Egyptian Water Week, scheduled for October 29, 2023, in Egypt.
In his remarks, the Minister of State for water resources and sanitation, Alhaji Bello Goronyo, emphasised the vast potentials for mutual benefits in this collaboration, especially in ensuring food security, given the extensive land areas of both nations.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that draft copies of Memorandum of Understanding and an invitation to the Cairo Water Week were presented to the minister. (NAN)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
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