President Bola Tinubu on Monday celebrated Alex Sigman, his longtime friend and former schoolmate from Chicago State University, during the official launch of the Renewed Hope Mechanisation Programme in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, which also featured the Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus, Viktor Karankevich, Tinubu highlighted the significance of the partnership between Nigeria and Belarus in advancing agricultural mechanisation. The initiative includes the deployment of 2,000 tractors and other equipment as part of a bilateral agreement aimed at improving food security and eradicating poverty.
Reflecting on his personal connection with Sigman, Tinubu said, “Alex Sigman was my very good neighbour, and we attended Chicago State University together. Never did we imagine that I would one day become President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and that Alex would become a successful businessman from Belarus, helping to forge a partnership that promotes economic prosperity for both our nations.”
Tinubu praised the collaboration as a proud moment for their alma mater. “I believe our university will be proud of what we are doing here today. We are proud of you, Alex, and I believe you are equally pleased with the progress being made. More grease to your elbow.”
The Renewed Hope Mechanisation Programme is part of the administration’s broader effort to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and ensure food sovereignty through international partnerships and modern farming practices.
