Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has hailed a $1 billion joint initiative with Brazil to overhaul the country’s agricultural sector through mechanised farming and strategic partnerships aimed at ensuring long-term food security and job creation.
Speaking during an official visit by Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin in Abuja, Tinubu said the Green Imperative Programme, developed with the support of Brazil’s government and private sector, marks a decisive step toward transforming Nigeria’s farming ecosystem.
“The Green Imperative represents a clear shift from theory to implementation,” Tinubu said. “With Brazil’s expertise and technology, we’re setting the stage for modernised farming, rural empowerment, and a stronger agricultural economy.”
Under the scheme, service and training hubs will be established nationwide, allowing farmers to access up-to-date machinery and agricultural know-how. The project is expected to catalyse technology transfer and stimulate domestic food production across the country.
Joined by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu underscored that Nigeria and Brazil share not only democratic governance but a mutual vision for people-oriented progress.
“This is no longer diplomacy for diplomacy’s sake,” he said. “It is about working together for mutual benefit and development.”
Tinubu also confirmed Nigeria’s participation in COP30 in Brazil next year, highlighting it as another opportunity to deepen ties through climate action and sustainability initiatives.
On broader economic reforms, the President said Nigeria is stabilising its economy through tough but necessary policies such as fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, creating space for meaningful investment.
“Brazil’s leadership in agriculture and renewable energy offers lessons and partnership opportunities we are keen to embrace,” Tinubu added.
He also acknowledged the role of Brazilian companies such as Maersk and Grundfos in supporting Nigeria’s infrastructure and humanitarian efforts, particularly for communities affected by displacement.
President Tinubu closed the meeting with a symbolic gesture of unity in Portuguese: “Juntos somos mais fortes” — together we are stronger.
