Nasarawa State has taken significant steps towards international cooperation by formalizing a partnership with Angola, specifically its Bengo Province. On March 15, 2024, Governor Abdullahi Sule signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. Maria Antónia Nelumba, the Governor of Bengo Province, in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State. This agreement targets vital sectors such as agriculture and education, aiming to enhance socio-economic development for both regions.
During the signing ceremony, Governor Sule highlighted the extensive discussions between technical teams from both governments. These discussions revealed notable similarities between Nasarawa and Bengo, particularly their proximity to major national capitals—Abuja and Luanda. “We identified common challenges and opportunities arising from our proximity to the capital cities,” Sule remarked. “Based on our comparative advantages in areas such as agriculture, mining, oil and gas, education, and health, we agreed to begin cooperation in selected priority sectors.”
The governor emphasized the potential for knowledge exchange and joint investment, noting that while Bengo Province has demonstrated strong agricultural capabilities, Nasarawa State possesses complementary strengths. This collaboration is expected to facilitate capacity building and mutual growth.
Dr. Maria Antónia Nelumba praised the MoU as a historic milestone in the relationship between Nigeria and Angola. She expressed that the agreement represents more than just formal cooperation; it symbolizes the solidarity and brotherhood shared by the two regions. “The signing of this agreement goes beyond formal cooperation. It symbolises fraternity between our peoples and our shared determination to advance economic, environmental, and social development,” Nelumba stated.
Following the MoU signing, the two governors inaugurated the One-Stop Investment Hub, located at the headquarters of the Nasarawa State Investment Development Agency (NASIDA). This hub is designed to assist Angolan investors in accessing opportunities within Nasarawa State, streamlining processes for entry, coordination, and project implementation.
This partnership marks a new chapter in sub-national diplomacy, aimed not only at leveraging the strengths of both regions but also at fostering a collaborative framework for future endeavors. Through this agreement, Nasarawa State and Bengo Province are poised to advance together, setting a foundation for shared development goals that could inspire similar initiatives across the globe.
