Niger State Government and France have reaffirmed the commitment of their governments to improve their existing relationship for mutual benefit.
This was the outcome of the meeting between Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the French Ambassador to Nigeria yesterday in Abuja.
In a press statement made available to newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, Mal. Bologi Ibrahim, the governor disclosed that the diplomatic ties will focus on education, agriculture, energy, investment, job creation, tourism, and culture, among others.
Governor Umaru Bago, who highlighted the natural resources that abound in the state, emphasized that the state has a comparative advantage in food and cash crops. He explained that strengthening the relationship will no doubt create job opportunities for youth and improve the socio-economic status of the state.
The governor further stated that the policy thrust of his administration covers infrastructure, health, education, and renewable energy, among others.
He disclosed that his administration intends to create jobs for about 400,000 women through shea butter processing and other cash crops, explaining that a state-of-the-art garment factory for mass production of school, military, and vigilante uniforms will be established.
Governor Umaru Bago told the French ambassador about the intention of his administration to cultivate the habit of planting ten million trees in the next four years as part of an effort to mitigate climate change and address global warming.
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Emmanuelle Blatmann, said France was looking forward to strengthening its bilateral relationship with Nigeria, especially with the Niger State Government, for mutual benefits.
She said the French government was committed to ensuring the success of the partnership and, consequently, providing advanced technology and scholarships for the people.
The Ambassador noted that over three billion Euros had been expended on rural electrification in Northern Nigeria by the French government.