Romanian Ministry of Agriculture Hosts Delegation from Nigeria's Defence College

Cristian-Mihael Leonov, Undersecretary of State within the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR), welcomed a delegation at the Ministry’s headquarters composed of military leadership from the National Defence College of Nigeria, as well as officers from Gabon, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone.

The meeting was held in the presence of H.E. JOMOMOH Francisca Unekwu, Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Romania, and FAMUYIWA Ayodele Keshinro, Air Commodore.

The discussions focused on sharing Romania’s experience in the livestock sector and agricultural research, as part of an exchange of best practices and expertise between the two sides.

Romania’s Role in Agricultural Policy and Research

In his opening remarks, the MADR official presented the Ministry’s key areas of responsibility, emphasizing its role in formulating legislation and public policies in the fields of agriculture, rural development, fisheries, and the food industry.

The Nigerian delegation expressed a particular interest in livestock development and related research activities. In response, MADR leadership delivered a series of technical presentations tailored to these interests.

Specialist Contributions from MADR

Presentations were delivered by:

• Mihai Neagu, Director of the Livestock Policy Directorate
• Florinel Bîrcă, Director General of the National Agency for Animal Husbandry
• Alina Donici, Head of the Department for Research, Innovation, Agricultural High School Education, Consultancy, and Agricultural Statistics

Each highlighted the priorities, achievements, and development outlook of the Romanian livestock and research sectors.

Insights into Nigeria’s Defence College Structure

The Nigerian side outlined the structure of the Defence College, which is organized into three main branches:

• The Academic Faculty
• The Administrative and Logistics Division
• The Centre for Research and Strategic Studies

The college’s mission is to develop knowledge, expertise, and leadership skills for selected senior officers and civilians, enabling them to understand the strategic and operational dimensions of national and international security.

It also conducts research on key issues related to security and governance.

Dialogue and Exchange of Expertise

During the meeting, the Nigerian delegation raised specific questions concerning best practices, national policies, and livestock research strategies. Romanian experts provided detailed and tailored responses, addressing both the regulatory and institutional frameworks, as well as ongoing projects and future opportunities.

In the concluding part of the visit, discussions expanded to include global concerns such as the challenges of the Common Agricultural Policy, food security, and environmental protection. MADR specialists offered targeted clarifications and relevant examples from the Romanian context.

Strengthening Cooperation in Agricultural Research

The meeting offered a valuable opportunity for dialogue and knowledge-sharing between Romanian experts and the Nigerian delegation, contributing to the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in livestock development and agricultural research.