Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has called on countries of the European Union (EU) to partner the state government to develop commercial agricultural to create jobs.
Wike also called on the EU countries to partner the government to improve its capital waste disposal system.
He spoke on Tuesday at a forum of the European Union Heads of Missions in Abuja, in a presentation titled: “Understanding current political and security situation in Rivers State in particular and Niger Delta region in general”.
The governor said: “We will continue to solicit for targeted development interventions in Rivers State from the European Union Missions. Increase your unconditional development grants to Rivers State, and deploy same to fund programmes, projects and services that will sustainably advance the socio-economic wellbeing of our people and communities; and
encourage European companies and investors to come over to Rivers State in particular and the Niger Delta in general, invest in commercial agriculture, manufacturing, maritime services, oil and gas exploration, quality healthcare delivery, quality education, especially, in science and technology, roads and transport infrastructure, affordable housing, water provision and effective waste disposal systems.
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“Rivers State is effectively being governed. law and order is in place; people are freely going about with their social and economic activities; the state is largely peaceful and the crime rate is relatively low on the national average.
“This is also true with other Niger Delta states; none is under a state of pervasive insecurity or violence as we have in some other parts of the country. As a government, our desire and resolve is to ensure that Rivers State is sustainably peaceful, secure and safe for citizens and visitors to reside, do business and have fun. And we have done a lot in the last four years to advance the security and wellbeing of the state and our citizens through personal initiatives as well as through the national security institutions.”
Wike also thanked the EU for its efforts in deepening democracy in the country. “We thank you for the report you submitted to various organisations on the 2019 elections. Not everyone will like the report, but the truth must be told for us to forge ahead. I believe that if this country must move forward, we must look at the report and see how best we can improve on our electoral system,” he added.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria Ketil Karlsen said the meeting was an opportunity for Wike to address the EU on his visions and perspectives to the growth of the state. According to him,
Wike has proven himself by taking steps to actualise the goals of his administration.
The meeting discussed ways of partnership and development for the benefit of all sides.
