The Niger State Government, has proposed to empower over 400,000 women in shea butter processing and other cash crops across the state.
The Governor of the state, Mohammed Umar Bago, made the announcement on Wednesday in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, during a meeting with the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Emmanuelle Blatmann.
The Governor further explained that his administration plans to establish a state-of-the-art garment factory for mass production of school uniforms, military uniforms, and other types of uniforms.
He also briefed the French Ambassador on his administration’s intention to cultivate the habit of planting ten million trees in the next four years as part of efforts to mitigate climate change and address global warming.
According to the Governor’s spokesperson, Bologi Ibrahim, the diplomatic ties will focus on education, agriculture, energy, investment, job creation, tourism, culture, and other beneficial issues.
Governor Umaru Bago highlighted the natural resources abundant in the state and emphasized its comparative advantage in food and cash crops. He stated that strengthening the relationship would create job opportunities for youth and improve the socio-economic status of the state.
“The policy thrust of my administration covers infrastructure, health, education, renewable energy, among others,” added Governor Bago.
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Emmanuelle Blatmann, expressed the French Government’s eagerness to strengthen its bilateral relationship with Nigeria, especially the Niger State Government, for mutual benefits.
She stated that the French government is committed to ensuring the success of the partnership and providing advanced technology and scholarships to the people.
The Ambassador noted that the French Government has already spent over three billion euros on rural electrification in Northern Nigeria.