The Niger State Government and France have reaffirmed the commitment of their governments to improving the existing relations between them for mutual benefit.
This came as a result of the meeting of the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago with France Ambassador to Nigeria in Abuja.
The diplomatic ties would focus on education, agriculture, energy, investment, job creation, tourism and culture, among others.
Governor Umaru Bago who listed the natural resources that abound in the state emphasised that the state had a comparative advantage in food and cash crops.
He explained that strengthening the relationship his state and France would, no doubt, create job opportunities for the youths and improve the socio-economic status of the state.
The governor further said the policy thrust of his administration covered infrastructure, health, education and renewable energy, among others.
He disclosed that his administration intended to invest in 400,000 women in shea butter processing, and other cash crops, explaining that a state-of-the-art garment factory for mass production of school, military and vigilante group uniforms would be established.
Governor Bago briefed the French Ambassador to Nigeria on the intention of his administration to cultivate the habit of planting 10million 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 the French Government was looking forward to strengthening its bilateral relations with Nigeria, especially 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 to the people.
The Ambassador noted that over 3bn Euros had been expended on rural electrification in Northern Nigeria by the French Government.
Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary
to the Governor of Niger State
21/06/2023.
Cc: NTA News
