Nigeria, Israel Strengthen Ties, Explore Collaboration on Food Security
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigeria and Israel are set to deepen their diplomatic and economic ties with the proposed establishment of a joint commission and high-level dialogue.
This was revealed during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, and the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, in Abuja.
Tops on the agenda of the discussions was the need for stronger collaboration in security, agriculture, health, education, and the film industry.
Ambassador Ojukwu emphasised Nigeria’s interest in leveraging Israel’s expertise in counter-terrorism and agricultural technology, particularly drip irrigation, to boost food security and large-scale rice production.
She said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to improving the lives of the poor, and food security is a key focus hence the administration is looking forward to learning from Israel’s innovative agricultural techniques.
Ambassador Freeman on his part, expressed Israel’s readiness to support Nigeria’s development, highlighting existing partnerships in healthcare and entrepreneurship.
He also announced plans to showcase Israel’s ability to grow rice using drip irrigation technology at the embassy’s farm.
Both diplomats acknowledged the growing economic relationship, with trade between the two nations currently valued at $250 million.
They expressed optimism about increasing investments and easing trade barriers.
The meeting also touched on cultural exchanges, with Ojukwu calling for closer collaboration in Nollywood production and advocating for simplified citizenship processes for Nigerians residing in Israel.
On global security, the minister extended condolences to Israel over the October 7 attacks by Hamas and expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
With a strong history of diplomatic relations, both nations are now poised to take their partnership to new heights, fostering economic growth and technological advancements in key sectors.
