Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State is seeking the support of the African Development Bank (AfDB) to develop the abundant agricultural and renewable energy resources in the state.
The governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Kaula Ibrahim, sought the bank’s support when he visited the Director-General, AfDB Nigeria Country Department, Mr Lamin Barrow, in Abuja.
Radda also sought AfDB’s support to develop the Northwest geo-political region of the country.
According to him, the purpose of the visit is to discuss investment and intervention support to boost job creation and enhance the livelihoods of the people of Katsina State, as well as the North West Geo-political region, which comprises seven states – Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
“We particularly need the Bank’s help to address the State’s infrastructural deficit, such as power.
”Also, we recognise the fact that renewable energy remains a critical infrastructure necessary for achieving higher economic growth in Katsina state, and across the North West geo-political region.
”That is what necessitated my visit to the Nigeria Country Office of the AfDB, to seek their support and strengthen the existing partnership,” he said.
Radda said the northwest governors unanimously agreed to collaborate with AfDB in the areas of agriculture and power which required a regional approach.
The governor also requested the bank’s support for the development of key agricultural value chains.
He listed them to include cotton, rice, wheat, and agricultural extension services that would help create jobs for the youth.
Radda thanked the AfDB management for the audience and looked forward to a cordial relationship with the bank.
In his remarks, the Director-General, AfDB Nigeria Country Department, Mr Lamin Barrow, thanked the governor for his engagement with the AfDB early in his mandate.
Barrow expressed appreciation for the governor’s visit and vision for transforming the fortunes of Katsina state.
He assured the governor of the bank’s support in the identified areas, particularly in the context of the ongoing and planned new operations.
Barrow said: “On behalf of the AfDB, I want to congratulate Dr Radda on his election as the Executive Governor of Katsina State.
”And to commend him for the clear vision he has articulated for the State during our meeting, prioritising regional approaches and interventions that will drive inclusive growth.“
Accompanying the governor was his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Jabiru Tsauri; Principal Private Secretary, Alhaji Abdullahi Turaji, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kaula Ibrahim, and Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Digital Media, Isah Miqdad, among others.
By Lucy Ogalue
