The German Consul General to Nigeria, Weert Borner, is considering potential partnership with the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State to strengthen agricultural innovations that will help sustainable food production in the country.
Supporting a worldwide coalition for food security, Borner emphasized the importance of immediate action, noting that although the German government and the United Nations have provided assistance in food supplies, it is crucial to find lasting solutions for long-term progress and success.
In a statement on Saturday, the consul general revealed this during his visit to the university.
He presented a lecture titled “Nigeria-German Cooperation: Enhancing Food Security Through Sustainable Agriculture.”
The statement mentioned, “Borner highlighted the critical significance of addressing food security, education, and housing, while also pointing out the urgent issue of climate change, which requires global attention and combined efforts.
“He specifically emphasized the importance of improving fertilizer production with renewable energy sources, envisioning significant advancements in agricultural output through innovative methods”.
Stressing the priority placed by the German government on Nigerian-German cooperation in food security, the Diplomat referenced high-level visits to Nigerian authorities, including the President and Commander in Chief, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to promote agricultural collaborations.
He stated that the goal was to further discuss agricultural-related issues and ensure economic stability.
He mentioned his conversation with the government had focused on three key areas: enhancing agricultural technology, innovations, and making agriculture a profitable business, as well as promoting rural development by improving the energy infrastructure.
The diplomat recognized the numerous natural benefits of cassava, including the skins and outer layers that could be used for various purposes, and suggested a potential area of partnership was how to enhance the productivity of cassava.
Additionally, he noted the ongoing partnerships aimed at establishing Trade Fairs focused on agro-food, scheduled to commence on March 26.
Praising the welcoming atmosphere of FUNAAB, Borner compared the university to a thriving garden.
However, he expressed disappointment about the deteriorated road from Camp to the University Gate, and remarked that the intra-campus road and aesthetics were comforting.
In his earlier remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde expressed appreciation to Mr. Borner and his wife for their visit, stating that it symbolized the enduring partnership between Germany and FUNAAB.
He emphasized the University’s dedication to encouraging collaboration through initiatives such as faculty exchanges, joint research endeavors, and incorporation of modern agricultural technologies into the curriculum.
The acting Registrar, Oluwatoyin Morufat Dawodu thanked the German Consul General for the insightful Public Lecture, and said that the University was hopeful this would be the beginning of positive developments between FUNAAB and the German government.
