The European Union (EU) on Thursday, restated its commitment to supporting Nigeria in the development of her agricultural sector, especially now that she was diversifying her economy.
Head of the European Union (EU) to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Amb. Michel Arrion gave the ressurance at the 5th EU-Nigeria Business Forum in Lagos.
The theme of this year’s forum was “Harnessing Nigeria’s Potential for Economic Growth”.
Arrion said that the European Union countries would continue to remain the destinations for Nigeria’s oil and non-oil exports in the years ahead.
“Our last year’s forum was focused on agricultural development, which is obviously the centre of focus of Nigeria at the moment in her diversification efforts.
“We are very happy to announce that the most tangible result of last year’s forum is the Agriculture Policy Dialogue between the EU and Nigeria, which was officially inaugurated in September.
“The European Union remains the destination for oil and non-oil exports from Nigeria,’’ he said.
Arrion said that there had been series of meetings between officials of the EU from Brussels with the Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
The Head of the EU to Nigeria and the ECOWAS sub-region said that the meetings were aimed at promoting responsible investment in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
He also announced the EU’s plan in February next year to lead a business delegation made up of top agribusiness companies to Nigeria.
Arrion said that this year’s forum was meant to allow business people from Nigeria, Europe, West Africa and policy makers to discuss ways and means for improving the business environment in Nigeria. President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief Nike Akande,said that it was imperative for Nigeria and the European Union to sustain their relationship. Akande enjoined the EU to desist from looking at the challenges currently facing Nigeria, but to look at the opportunities for them in the country.
“Nigeria and the European Union need to sustain their relationship.
