Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has called for more collaboration and partnership between Nigeria and the Netherlands to address some challenges in the country such as conflicts and food insecurity to foster economic growth and development.
Kalu, who spoke when playing host to the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria, WouterPlomp said the Dutch stands as a significant source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Nigeria, particularly in oil and gas, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors.
He commended the Netherlands for its investments in Nigeria and its contributions towards reducing insecurity.
According to the deputy speaker, the Netherlands’ support for peace-building initiatives in Nigeria, especially in addressing conflicts in parts of the country reflects both nations’ shared commitment to promoting stability and security.
While harping on the importance of food security, saying that it’s a sustainable approach towards having peace and security, Kalu referred to his Peace in the South East Project’ which has agriculture and food security as one of its pillars, recalling that it recently launched ‘food for peace’ aimed at providing food for the people.
Kalu stated that there’s a significant potential for partnership in the value chain for processing and packaging of dairy products, adding that having the fifth largest cattle herd in Africa, collaboration with the Netherlands in processing dairy products beyond what is currently being done at the moment can foster economic growth.
He said further that the parliament was looking forward to engaging in more productive dialogue that further strengthened the bilateral relationship.
The deputy speaker said: “Your presence here at the People’s House stands as a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties and enduring friendship that bind our two nations. The parliament is aware of your presence in the country and the impact that you’re making.
“Take it back to the kingdom that the parliament of Nigeria is aware of the contribution you’re making to nation-building. In 2022, bilateral trade between Nigeria and the Netherlands reached 7.7 billion Euros, with Nigeria enjoying a trade surplus of 5.2 billion Euros. Our trade relations continue to thrive.
Discover more from The STATESMAN Newspaper
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Post Disclaimer
THE STATESMAN NEWSPAPER make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the stories hereon as the statements are purely of the news makers.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from THE STATESMAN NEWSPAPER.
Contact:
