By Abdul Lauya
President Bola Tinubu has called for deeper cooperation between Nigeria and Denmark to expand the livestock and dairy economy for job creation and food security.
According to a press release by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President made this call on Tuesday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving Queen Mary Elizabeth of Denmark on her first official visit to Nigeria.
The visit was co-hosted by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who joined President Tinubu in welcoming the Danish Queen.
Tinubu stressed the importance of knowledge transfer, veterinary health, and sustainable agribusiness in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He identified farmer-herder conflicts as a critical challenge but said these could be converted into economic opportunities through investment and education.
The President reaffirmed that Nigeria’s foreign policy prioritises demography, aligning with his Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said managing Nigeria’s projected population of 400 million by 2050 requires targeted investment in agriculture, education, healthcare, and employment.
Tinubu highlighted ongoing economic reforms and urged foreign investment that boosts local production and jobs.
He acknowledged Danish contributions to agriculture and maritime operations, citing companies like A.P. Moller-Maersk and Grundfos.
The President appreciated Denmark’s support for displaced persons in conflict zones and expressed hope for stronger ties as Denmark prepares for key roles in the EU Council and UN Security Council.
He welcomed the First Lady’s collaboration with Queen Mary on social programmes, including school feeding and reducing out-of-school children.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu called for the transformation of traditional Islamic schools to ensure their integration into formal education systems.
Queen Mary expressed sympathy over Nigeria’s humanitarian crisis and reiterated Denmark’s commitment to sustainable development and women-led business growth.
She praised the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative and announced plans to visit the A.P. Moller, Maersk terminal in Lagos during her trip.
