The Federal Government has indicated a strong interest to collaborate with the Republic of Cuba on the development of biotechnology for food and pharmaceutical production.
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu made this known when the Ambassador of Cuba to Nigeria, Amb. Clara Pulido Escadell paid him a courtesy visit in his office today (April 11, 2022) in Abuja.
Onu said Nigeria, which has a large youthful population compared to other developed countries, will accelerate the development of the country, especially in biotechnology.
He further said that Nigerian youths at home and in the diaspora, have reached the peak of their careers in various technological endeavours and could take Nigeria to greater heights with their skills.
In tackling food security, the Federal Government has assured that Nigeria is no longer one of the largest importers of rice, but has emerged as one of the largest producers and exporters of rice in Africa.
Further on Nigeria’s efforts at biotechnology development, Onu said that the cultivation of yam is not just for food but also as a raw material for industries.
Onu assured the Cuban envoy of Nigeria’s collaboration and close working relationship with them.
Earlier, Escadell said her visit is to discuss Nigeria’s participation at the forthcoming International Conference Bio Habana 2022, slated to be held in Cuba from April 25 to 29, 2022.
She also discussed the relationship between both nations and hailed the tremendous opportunities that abound in Nigeria.
