By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The federal government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with the united arab emirates (UAE) in the areas of water supply, sanitation, and irrigated agriculture as part of efforts to enhance food security, economic growth and sustainable development.
Minister of water resources and sanitation, prof. joseph Utsev, stated this when he received the uae ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Alshamsi, who paid him a working visit in Abuja.
In a statement by the Director Information and Public Relation of the ministry Funmi Imuetinyan quoted the Minister as saying that since the assumption of this administration, government has prioritized agriculture and water supply as key pillars for achieving national food security, expanding access to clean and safe water, creating employment opportunities for youths, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
He emphasized that Nigeria remains committed to deepening collaboration with the UAE in areas of mutual benefit, particularly in water resources development, sanitation, and irrigation systems.
prof. Utsev assured the delegation that the ministry would continue to work closely with the UAE to exchange technical expertise, explore investment opportunities, strengthen institutional cooperation, and identify viable areas of intervention that will advance sustainable water management and agricultural productivity.
the UAE ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Alshamsi, said the visit was aimed at strengthening partnership with Nigeria on the sustainable power and irrigation for Nigeria (spin) initiative, as well as exploring opportunities for collaboration on ongoing water and energy-related projects that can deliver mutual benefits.
He expressed appreciation to president tinubu for strengthening bilateral relations between both countries, noting that the improved synergy has significantly increased trade between nigeria and the uae
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in sustainable water management, irrigation development, and shared prosperity between the two nations.
