FG, UAE Deepen Partnership on Water Resources, Irrigation, Food Security
FG, UAE Deepen Partnership on Water Resources, Irrigation, Food Security
FG, UAE Deepen Partnership on Water Resources, Irrigation, Food Security
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in water supply, sanitation and irrigated agriculture as part of efforts to enhance food security, economic growth and sustainable development.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, stated this in Abuja while receiving the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed AlShamsi, and the Head of Political and Economic Affairs at the UAE Embassy, Saif Bin Thani, during a working visit to the ministry.
Utsev said the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritised agriculture and water supply as critical pillars for achieving national food security, expanding access to clean and safe water, creating employment opportunities for youths and promoting inclusive economic growth.
According to the minister, Nigeria remains committed to deepening collaboration with the UAE in areas of mutual interest, particularly water resources development, sanitation and irrigation systems.
He assured the delegation that the ministry would continue to work closely with the UAE to facilitate technical knowledge exchange, explore investment opportunities, strengthen institutional cooperation and identify viable intervention areas capable of advancing sustainable water management and agricultural productivity.
Speaking during the visit, Ambassador AlShamsi said the engagement was aimed at strengthening partnership with Nigeria on the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) initiative and exploring opportunities for collaboration on ongoing water and energy-related projects.
The ambassador also extended an invitation to the minister to participate in the forthcoming Water Forum scheduled for December, which will be jointly hosted by the UAE and Senegal. The forum is expected to bring together global leaders and stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving access to water and sanitation services, especially in underserved communities.
AlShamsi commended President Tinubu for fostering stronger bilateral relations between both countries, noting that improved cooperation has significantly boosted trade ties. He disclosed that the UAE currently accounts for about 47 per cent of Nigeria’s trade with Arab nations, making it the country’s leading Arab trading partner.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Emanso Umobong, alongside directors and technical officials of the ministry.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in sustainable water management, irrigation development and initiatives aimed at promoting shared prosperity between Nigeria and the UAE.
FG, UAE Deepen Partnership on Water Resources, Irrigation, Food Security
