Benue state Governor, Hyacinth Alia on Thursday, departed for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire’s largest city, to attend the 65th birthday of the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina in a strategic move to cement ties that would attract further investments for the state especially, in the agricultural sector.
Alia, in a post on his Facebook page, said the trip will offer the Benue state government the opportunity to engage with one of Africa’s most influential financial institutions in pushing forward, issues of infrastructure development.
He said, “This morning, my team and I departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, for a high-profile event that marks the 65th birthday celebration of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).”
Governor Alia explained, “It’s also an opportunity for the Benue State Government (BNSG) to engage with one of Africa’s most influential financial institutions to secure critical support for agricultural and infrastructural development in our state.”
According to the Benue state Governor, the focus of the government remains to push for access to AfDB’s agricultural finance programmes to support farmers and agribusinesses in Benue.
Other areas of focus are seeking a partnership to develop our agro-industrial zones, creating jobs and boosting the state’s economic growth as well as advancing conversations to secure funding for infrastructure projects; from roads to electricity, that will power Benue’s agricultural revolution.
The Governor added that the government is attracting investment opportunities into our agricultural sector, leveraging AfDB’s extensive network, which is also a top priority.
“Benue is poised for greatness, and with AfDB’s backing, we are ready to transform our state into an agro-industrial hub, driving food security, industrialization, and economic empowerment for our people,” the statement added.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Alia continues to prioritize agriculture in Benue, targeting to restore the state’s position as Nigeria’s food basket through the implementation of various policies, programmes, and initiatives to support farmers and improve productivity.
