By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Federal government has stated that Nigeria has the potential to become a green reference point for large markets in Africa.
Presidential spokespersons, Ajuri Ngelale stated this after a follow-up meeting with the leadership of the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria, InfraCorp, at the weekend in Abuja where the progress of the Evergreen City project was discussed.
President Bola Tinubu had in May this year approved the appointment of the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria as the lead arranger and developer of the Evergreen City, the country’s green industrial zone.
The Evergreen City development aims to showcase Nigerian ingenuity and talent, positioning the country as a manufacturing hub in Africa.
InfraCorp was also given the mandate to select partners/consultants to undertake critical development activities, including project design, environmental impact assessments, feasibility studies, financial modelling, and market engagement.
Speaking shortly after the meeting, Ngelale, who doubles as the Presidential Special Envoy on Climate Change, expressed confidence over the international interest and time-bound deliverables of the project.
He pointed out that the Evergreen City development is aimed at showcasing Nigerian ingenuity and talent, positioning the country as a manufacturing hub.
According to the SPEC in brief made available to journalists at the State House, Abuja, the meeting demonstrated the government’s commitment to executing well-laid plans, harnessing national talent, and driving success in the landmark project.
He said as Nigeria strives to become a leader in green development, the Evergreen City is framed to set a new standard for sustainability and innovation on the continent
He said: “Post-holiday follow-up meeting with the leadership of the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp) on the development of Evergreen City was held on Friday evening.
“With time-bound deliverables and immense international interest in the landmark development, we are more confident than ever that with the diligent execution of well-laid plans, Nigeria will be the green reference point for large markets becoming large producers in Africa.
“Our bet is on Nigerians and national ingenuity, and we believe we have a talented population of creators who will drive this manufacturing hub to success.”