NIGERIA SEEKS DEEPER COOPERATION WITH DENMARK TO MODERNIZE LIVESTOCK FARMING
President Bola Tinubu has expressed Nigeria’s eagerness to strengthen bilateral ties with Denmark, particularly in modernizing the livestock sector to boost food security, create jobs, and promote rural development. The President made this known when he received Queen Mary of Denmark at the State House in Abuja. Tinubu emphasized that the livestock sector holds immense potential for job creation, food security, and rural development, but noted that conflicts between farmers and herders pose a significant developmental challenge. However, he believes these conflicts can be transformed into economic opportunities through investment, education, and sustainable practices. “We can convert that friction into structured economic opportunity and provide education pathways, even for farmers and herders. We can stabilise communities, grow our food systems, and lift millions out of poverty,” Tinubu said. The President also highlighted the importance of demographic planning, citing Nigeria’s projected population of 400 million by 2050. He emphasized the need for targeted investments in agriculture, education, healthcare, and employment to manage this growth. “We must manage that growth through targeted investments in agriculture, education, healthcare, and employment,” Tinubu stated. Queen Mary, on her first official visit to Nigeria, expressed interest in partnerships across the green economy, women’s enterprise, and child health. She commended the First Lady’s efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative, particularly in empowering women and families. The Queen also praised Denmark’s existing contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural and maritime infrastructure, including the work of companies like A.P. Moller–Maersk and Grundfos. Tinubu expressed optimism about continued collaboration between Nigeria and Denmark, especially as Denmark assumes the EU Council Presidency and prepares for a seat on the UN Security Council in 2025-2026.