President Bola Tinubu has emphasised the need to expand Nigeria’s dairy and livestock economy, describing the sector as vital for job creation, rural development and food security in the face of a growing population.
According to a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President made the remarks on Tuesday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark, who is visiting Nigeria for the first time as Patron of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, co-hosted the Danish monarch.
President Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Denmark in areas such as knowledge transfer, veterinary health and sustainable agribusiness. He noted that challenges like the long-running farmer-herder conflicts could be turned into economic opportunities through investment, education and modernisation.
“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,” the President stated.
The President also highlighted the importance of managing Nigeria’s projected 400 million population by 2050 through targeted investments in agriculture, healthcare, education and employment, aligning with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He acknowledged Denmark’s longstanding partnership in agriculture, maritime operations and humanitarian support for displaced persons.
Queen Mary, in her remarks, reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, particularly in green economy ventures, women’s economic empowerment, child health and cultural exchange. She praised the First Lady’s work in supporting women and families through the Renewed Hope Initiative and expressed her intent to visit Maersk’s terminal in Lagos.