Niger Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has said that he spent part of his annual leave in China to learn about their agricultural and industrial practices, to explore how they can be replicated in Niger.
The governor stated this on Thursday in a press statement made available to the newsmen in Minna, the State capital by the Special Adviser to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago on Print Media, A’isha Wakaso, adding that the Governor, who is currently in Beijing, China, as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s delegation on an official visit and attendance of the Forum of China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) stated that he visited some states in China during his visit to acquire knowledge on the practices and possible partnerships.
Speaking during the event on the visit with the President, Bago said the visit is an opportunity for Nigeria and China to foster a relationship for the economic development of Nigeria as various states will have the chance to showcase and have talks with the Chinese government for the good of the states and the country at large.
According to the Governor, “This visit holds significant potential for Niger State through partnership with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) on major infrastructure projects in Nigeria”.
He stated that among these projects is the Nigerian Railway Modernisation Project, which includes the critical Ibadan-Minna and Minna-Abuja sections, highlighting that these railway projects are expected to substantially enhance transportation infrastructure in Niger State substantially, facilitating smoother, faster, and more efficient movement of goods and people, thereby boosting the state’s economy.
Aisha Wakaso explained that Governor Umaru Bago’s participation in this visit underscores Niger State’s strategic focus on securing international partnerships that will drive infrastructural development, agricultural partnerships, and economic growth, ultimately improving the living standards of Nigerlites.
“His involvement in these discussions is anticipated to yield tangible benefits for the state,” Wakaso declared.
“The statement reads in parts. The proposed railway projects, once funded and executed, will not only enhance connectivity within Niger State but also link it with key regions across Nigeria, facilitating trade and movement of goods, especially agricultural produce. During the visit, Governor Bago also engaged with Huawei, one of the world’s leading technology companies.
“This engagement is poised to position Niger State as a hub for innovation and technological advancement, potentially attracting further investments and creating job opportunities for its residents.
“Discussions with Huawei focused on launching and completing several major projects that will contribute directly to Nigeria’s technological progress.
“These projects include the establishment of the Africa Regional Network Operation Centre, the Innovation and Experience Dialogue Centre, the Cloud Computing Centre, and a Joint Solar Power Test Lab.
For Niger State, these developments are particularly significant. The successful implementation of the railway modernization projects will enhance connectivity within the state and to other regions, unlocking new opportunities for trade and investment,” she maintained.
Additionally, the state has not stressed that the technological initiatives with Huawei will position Niger State as a centre for innovation and technology, attracting further investments and generating new jobs for Nigerlites.
“Moreover, the focus on infrastructural development in areas such as river ports, aviation, and roads will ensure that Niger State becomes a critical hub in Nigeria’s transportation network.
“This will not only improve the quality of life for the state’s residents but also make it a more attractive destination for businesses and investors,” it was further stated.
Meanwhile, Governor Bago’s active involvement in these strategic discussions reflects Niger State’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships for the benefit of its people, emphasizing that as these projects come to fruition, Niger State is set to witness a transformation that will drive its economic growth and solidify its position as a key player in Nigeria’s development landscape. Niger State stands to gain significantly, paving the way for a more connected, technologically advanced, and economically vibrant future.
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