Nasarawa Hosts Bengo Governor, Deepens Nigeria–Angola Cooperation Visit targets stronger ties in agriculture, education, others

By David Odama

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, on Monday received the Governor of Bengo Province, Angola, Dr. Maria Antonio, in Lafia, describing the visit as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, education and other critical sectors.

The visit, according to Governor Sule, follows Nasarawa State’s delegation trip to Angola in September, aimed at concluding agreements that would be of mutual benefit to both regions.

While welcoming Dr. Antonio, Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Jose Bamoquina-Zau, and other members of the delegation, Governor Sule commended the ambassador for his commitment and efforts in ensuring the partnership between Nasarawa State and Bengo Province becomes a reality.

He explained that the September visit to Angola was undertaken to activate the bilateral agreement signed by Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and João Lourenço of Angola, noting that Bengo Province was chosen because of its similarities with Nasarawa State, particularly its closeness to a capital city and strong agricultural base. He highlighted opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, marble and other areas where both regions share common strengths.

Governor Sule further disclosed that the Ministry of External Affairs had approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, as part of the state’s drive to internationalize its economy, attract investment, promote knowledge exchange and stimulate economic growth.

In her response, Governor Maria Antonio thanked the Nasarawa State Government for the warm reception, expressing confidence that the partnership would deliver tangible benefits to both regions. She said the cooperation would strengthen ties between the people, enhance development and ensure mutually rewarding outcomes. She added that her delegation, including the Angolan Ambassador and directors from Bengo Province, had the approval of the Angolan President to sign the agreement, building on the existing bilateral pact between both countries.