In a significant move to enhance agricultural production, trade, and finance, Nigeria and Belgium are set to deepen their collaboration, with a particular focus on leveraging the agricultural potential of Ibadanland. This partnership comes at a crucial time as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy, reduce dependence on oil, and boost food security, while Belgium aims to expand its investments in Africa.

Belgium’s Strategic Interest in Nigerian Agriculture

During a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, expressed Belgium’s keen interest in tapping into the rich agricultural resources of the region. The visit underscored Belgium’s commitment to fostering bilateral relations that extend beyond traditional sectors, with a renewed focus on agriculture—a sector that holds immense potential for both nations.

Ambassador Leenknegt highlighted that his visit was not just a diplomatic gesture but a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural production, trade, and finance between the two countries. “We have spent some days at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and agriculture is one of the areas we are working on, which aligns with the agenda of the current administration in Nigeria,” Leenknegt stated. He emphasized Belgium’s interest in boosting cocoa production in Nigeria, particularly in Oyo State, which has historically been a major producer of cocoa.

Ibadan’s Agricultural Potential: A Key Attraction

Ibadan, one of the largest cities in Africa, is well-known for its vast arable land, which is suitable for large-scale agricultural production. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, through his representative, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, welcomed the Belgian delegation and highlighted the immense agricultural potential of the region. He pointed out that areas such as Egbeda, Ona Ara, Oluyole, Ido, Lagelu, and Akinyele local government areas are rich in arable land, ideal for the cultivation of various crops, including cocoa.

“Kabiesi is happy to receive you and your team this morning,” said Oba Ajibola. “Ibadan is one of the largest cities in Africa with major resources. We have vast arable land in Ibadan suitable for agricultural production on a large scale. Land is available abundantly in Oluyole, Egbeda, Ona Ara, Ido, Lagelu, and Akinyele, which are suitable for agricultural production. We want you to tap into this opportunity to boost food production, especially at this critical point in our nation.”

Boosting Cocoa Production: A Key Focus

Cocoa production has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s agricultural exports for decades, and Ibadan, with its favorable climate and rich soil, has been at the heart of this industry. However, challenges such as outdated farming practices, lack of access to finance, and inadequate infrastructure have hindered the sector’s growth. Belgium’s interest in reviving and expanding cocoa production in Nigeria could provide a much-needed boost to the industry.

Ambassador Leenknegt’s visit to the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan further underscored Belgium’s commitment to this cause. CRIN, established in 1964, has been instrumental in researching and developing improved cocoa varieties, pest control methods, and better farming techniques. By collaborating with CRIN and other local institutions, Belgium aims to introduce modern agricultural technologies and practices that could significantly enhance cocoa yields and quality.

The partnership also holds the promise of increasing Nigeria’s share in the global cocoa market, which has been dominated by countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. By improving productivity and processing capabilities, Nigeria could position itself as a major player in the international cocoa industry, benefiting not only farmers but also the broader economy.

Enhancing Trade and Finance

Beyond boosting agricultural production, the collaboration between Nigeria and Belgium is expected to enhance trade and finance between the two countries. Agriculture is a critical sector in Nigeria, contributing approximately 24% to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing over 70% of the workforce. However, the sector faces significant challenges, including limited access to credit, inadequate infrastructure, and low levels of mechanization.

Belgium’s involvement could help address some of these challenges by providing much-needed investment, technology, and expertise. The introduction of modern farming techniques, better access to finance for farmers, and improved infrastructure could transform the agricultural landscape in Nigeria, making it more competitive and sustainable.

The Belgian Ambassador’s visit also signals a broader interest in strengthening economic ties between the two nations. Belgium, a key player in the European Union, has a well-developed agricultural sector and a robust food processing industry. By partnering with Nigeria, Belgium could tap into the country’s vast agricultural potential, while Nigeria could benefit from Belgium’s advanced technologies, expertise, and access to European markets.

A Win-Win Partnership

The partnership between Nigeria and Belgium is a win-win for both countries. For Nigeria, the collaboration offers an opportunity to revitalize its agricultural sector, create jobs, and increase exports. For Belgium, it provides access to new markets and opportunities for investment in a country with significant growth potential.

Furthermore, the collaboration aligns with Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy, which seeks to reduce dependence on oil and develop other sectors of the economy. Agriculture, with its potential to generate employment, increase foreign exchange earnings, and ensure food security, is central to this strategy.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria and Belgium work together to enhance agricultural production, trade, and finance, the focus will likely be on creating sustainable and inclusive growth. This will involve not only increasing production but also ensuring that the benefits of growth are widely shared, particularly among smallholder farmers who make up the majority of the agricultural workforce in Nigeria.

The success of this partnership will depend on several factors, including the effective implementation of policies, the provision of adequate infrastructure, and the involvement of local communities in decision-making processes. It will also require continuous dialogue and collaboration between the two countries to address challenges and seize opportunities as they arise.

The presence of key members of the Olubadan-in-Council, including Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Osi Olubadan Oba Eddy Oyewole-Foko, Asipa Olubadan Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, and others, at the event underscores the importance of this partnership to the local community. Their support and involvement will be crucial in ensuring the success of the initiatives that emerge from this collaboration.

In conclusion, the visit of the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. By focusing on agriculture, a sector that is vital to Nigeria’s economy and to the well-being of its people, the partnership has the potential to yield significant benefits for both nations. As Nigeria continues to seek ways to diversify its economy and achieve sustainable development, collaborations like this one will play a key role in shaping the country’s future.

photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

29th August, 2024