Synopsis: Nigeria and the UAE strengthen cooperation in water management, sanitation, and irrigation to boost food security, agricultural productivity, job creation, and sustainable economic growth while expanding bilateral trade and investment ties.
Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are strengthening bilateral cooperation in water resources, sanitation, and irrigated agriculture as part of a broader effort to enhance food security, generate employment opportunities, and support sustainable economic growth. The renewed commitment underscores the growing partnership between the two countries in addressing critical development challenges and advancing shared economic objectives.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, and the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed AlShamsi, accompanied by Saif Bin Thani, Head of Political and Economic Affairs at the UAE Embassy. The discussions focused on expanding collaboration in water management, sanitation services, and agricultural development.
Prof. Utsev highlighted the Nigerian government’s emphasis on agriculture and water supply as key pillars of national development under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that improving access to clean and safe water, strengthening irrigation systems, and boosting agricultural productivity are essential components of Nigeria’s strategy to achieve food security, create jobs for young people, and promote inclusive economic growth.
The minister reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the UAE in areas of mutual interest. He emphasized the importance of sharing technical expertise, attracting investment, strengthening institutional partnerships, and identifying practical initiatives that can contribute to sustainable water management and enhanced agricultural output. According to Utsev, closer collaboration between the two countries has the potential to deliver long-term benefits for communities and support broader development goals.
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During the meeting, Ambassador AlShamsi expressed the UAE’s interest in expanding engagement with Nigeria through initiatives such as the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) programme. He noted that the UAE is keen to explore opportunities for collaboration on water and energy projects that can create positive outcomes for both countries.
The ambassador also invited the Nigerian minister to participate in the upcoming Water Forum, scheduled to be jointly hosted by the UAE and Senegal in December. The event is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to exchange knowledge and best practices on improving access to water and sanitation, particularly in underserved communities.
AlShamsi praised the strengthening relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, noting that enhanced cooperation has contributed to significant growth in bilateral trade. He stated that the UAE is now Nigeria’s largest trading partner among Arab nations, accounting for nearly half of the country’s trade with the Arab world.
Both sides concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to advancing cooperation in sustainable water management, irrigation development, agricultural productivity, and economic prosperity. Observers believe that stronger collaboration in these sectors could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s development goals while creating new opportunities for investment and knowledge exchange between the two countries.