Silagreen International Agro Development Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with several Brazilian institutions, including the University of Zebu Breeders Association, the Educational Foundation for the Development of Agricultural Sciences, and Associated Colleges of UBERABA.
The agreement aims to enhance national food security through improved cattle production and marks a major step in international agricultural cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil.
The development was announced by the Chief Executive Officer of Silagreen, Michael Akinruli, in a statement on Sunday, where he emphasised the strategic importance of the collaboration.
“The MOU is a strategic cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil in terms of cultural and scientific education transfer,” he said.
Akinruli highlighted that the initiative, which was facilitated by Silagreen’s Brazilian partner, ZEBUEMBRYO Company, will equip Nigerian students and professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills in livestock production.
“It would improve the skills of Nigerian graduates and undergraduates,” he noted, “adding that the beneficiaries would undergo structured courses that will sharpen their skills in cattle production and introduce them to new technologies and modern practices.”
He further noted that the programme would support the efforts of the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development. “The technology transfer would be helpful to the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development,” he stated.
Speaking on the broader significance of the partnership, the Chairman of Silagreen, Amos Ayodele, urged all levels of government and private agricultural entities to leverage the opportunity.
“I call on federal, state, and local governments as well as agricultural organizations, entities, and companies in Nigeria to take advantage of the unique knowledge and technology transfer opportunity,” he said.
Ayodele also underscored the importance of partnering with Brazil, citing its leadership in global beef production. “The collaboration with Brazil was very significant, as Brazil is the largest beef producer in the world,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Adeola Adesote, Technical Director of Silagreen, pointed to a critical gap in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
“A major shortfall in Nigeria’s livestock industry is the lack of field competence in ruminant livestock management,” he said, adding that the agreement would directly address the sector’s skill deficiency.
GIK/APA