By David Faith Boluwatife (I T Student, IFOTECH)
The European Union has unveiled plans to join forces with the Nasarawa State Government, targeting collaboration in the digital economy and sustainable energy.
The aim is to propel the economic diversification of the state for robust expansion and development.
European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi, conveyed this initiative during her inaugural meeting with Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, at the Government House in Lafia on Wednesday.
Isopi emphasized that the visit sought to strengthen bonds with the state, focusing on a comprehensive partnership encompassing climate change, economic relations, democratic governance, and peace and security.
In her statement, Isopi, who also serves as the EU ambassador to ECOWAS, underscored the EU’s commitment to addressing shared challenges with the state.
She highlighted the multifaceted cooperation, spanning peace, security, governance, migration, human development, education, health, as well as green and digital economies.
We are a pivotal development partner and the primary source of grant funding for Nigeria, she declared.
Isopi pledged support across various sectors, including agriculture—an integral industry for Nasarawa State’s economy—along with green energy, innovation, and more.
Isopi urged the Nasarawa state administration to endorse their collaborative efforts to achieve shared goals.
Governor Sule expressed gratitude for the EU ambassador’s visit, emphasizing the alignment of values between Nigeria, Nasarawa State, and the EU in areas such as peace, security, and democratic principles.
Sule opened the door to investments in oil and gas, agriculture, clean energy, and solid minerals, specifically highlighting lithium development.
He detailed the state’s commitment to education, skills, and vocational training to combat unemployment and empower youth for self-sufficiency.
Highlighting Nasarawa’s agricultural potential, Sule mentioned its status as the leading sesame producer in the country, attracting investor interest.
He disclosed plans for the state’s first sesame seed processing plant by early next year. Additionally, he spotlighted cassava and sugar cane production, indicating Dangote Sugar’s efforts to entice investors for ethanol production.
Governor Sule assured close collaboration with the EU, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to advancing economic development and achieving shared objectives.
