Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule and Bengo Province Governor Dr. Maria Antonia Nelumba signing the MoU at the Government House Lafia
Nasarawa State and Angola’s Bengo Province have taken a significant step towards sub-national cooperation, signing a bilateral partnership agreement.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covers key areas like human capital development, agriculture, skills acquisition, investment promotion, and solid minerals development.
The signing ceremony took place at the Government House in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday, with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Bengo Province Governor Dr. Maria Antonia Nelumba putting pen to paper.
The agreement highlights Nasarawa’s competitive advantages in mining, agriculture, oil and gas, education, and health, with both parties aiming to collaborate in these sectors. Governor Sule emphasized that while signing the MoU is important, its implementation is what truly matters.
“We must work together to make this agreement a success,” Governor Sule said, urging collaboration between the people of Nasarawa and Bengo Province. Governor Nelumba called the moment historic, saying, “We are brothers moving forward for economic development.”
Governor Nelumba, on her part expressed confidence that their shared determination would overcome any challenges. The partnership is part of a broader diplomatic trade mission led by Nasarawa State under the Nigeria-Angola Joint Development Commission.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, MD/CEO of NASIDA, noted that Governor Sule’s September visit to Angola laid the groundwork for this agreement. Governor Nelumba’s two-day visit included inaugurating key projects, like the NASSACO rice brand and Lafia Multi-Door Court House.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abba Kyari, praised Governor Sule’s leadership, saying the projects showcase “vision, leadership, and purposeful governance.” The NASSACO rice launch aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for agriculture and food security.
Senator Kyari added that Nasarawa’s efforts are laying a foundation for sustainable growth, job creation, and economic resilience. Abubakar Garba Ibrahim of Silvex International thanked Governor Sule for involving them in the state’s agribusiness transformation.
The event drew dignitaries, including the Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamóquina Zau, and traditional rulers led by the Emir of Lafia. It marked a promising start to Nasarawa and Bengo Province’s partnership.
Overall, the MoU signals a new chapter in international cooperation, focusing on mutual growth and development
