Nigeria and Brazil have officially launched the commercial phase of the $1.1 billion Green Imperative Project (GIP), a transformative initiative aimed at advancing agriculture and strengthening private sector investment in Nigeria.
In addition, Nigeria and Cuba have reinforced their diplomatic and economic relations, with renewed collaboration in healthcare, education, and trade.
Strengthening Agriculture and Food Security
The Nigerian Presidency emphasized that the agreement with Brazil is a key step toward ensuring food security. The Green Imperative Project, the largest agricultural initiative in Africa, focuses on sustainable, low-carbon agriculture, fostering efficient and competitive food production.
Vice President Kashim Shettima hailed Cuba as “a sacred land every progressive would identify with.” He reaffirmed that the administration remains committed to improving food security by leveraging the GIP to drive economic growth and boost investor confidence.
The GIP’s first phase, worth $1.1 billion, was signed in 2018, followed by the $4.3 billion second phase and a $2.5 billion JBS agreement during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Brazil last year.
Shettima stated:
“As this administration addresses the food security challenges, we must maximize initiatives like the GIP to ensure policy continuity, economic growth, and investor confidence. Nigeria has struggled with low agricultural productivity for decades, but through entrepreneurial capitalism and strategic investments, we can overcome these challenges.”
Brazil’s Commitment to Nigerian Agriculture
Brazil’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, expressed his country’s commitment to the project, stating:
“Over the past seven years, we have negotiated with the Nigerian government to secure funding from private and regional development banks to finance this ambitious project, worth approximately $1.1 billion.”
He emphasized that the initiative would facilitate the importation of agricultural equipment, including tractors and spare parts, with assembly and repairs conducted locally in Nigeria using trained Nigerian labor.
Nigeria-Cuba Relations: A Renewed Partnership
During a meeting with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla and Cuban Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero, Shettima highlighted the historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Cuba.
“Cuba, though located in South America, has its heartbeat in Africa. Your country played a crucial role in Africa’s liberation movements, standing with us during the anti-apartheid struggles in South Africa. We are proud of Cuba’s resilience and selfless leadership,” Shettima stated.
He further assured the Cuban delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering partnerships, particularly in healthcare and vaccine development:
“Our hearts and souls are with you. No matter how long the night is, it will give way to the light of dawn. We will support you, especially in strengthening our collaboration in healthcare and vaccination programs.”
50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
To mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Cuba, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing collaboration across multiple sectors. Parrilla also emphasized the enduring friendship between both nations, highlighting Cuba’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria.
