By Taiye Bayode.
Kogi State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Muhammed Muktar Shuaibu, has announced plans to make the state a major exporter of goods and commodities.
Shuaibu made this known during a roundtable dialogue with the state representatives of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in his office on Wednesday.
The Commissioner explained that the vision of Governor Usman Ododo-led administration is to position Kogi as a viable export promoting state.
He emphasized that Kogi has immense potentials evident in the vast resources available at her disposal.
The NEPC representatives, led by the State Coordinator, Hajia Amina Abdul Malik, congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment, while also explaining their mandate for the year – to double the State’s exports.
She explained how blessed Kogi State is when compared to other states, and how easy it is to cultivate farm produce like cashew and cassava.
Hajia Amina also noted that Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba (PAAU) has made commendable strides in this sector by owning a functional processing plant which can create opportunities to derive 40 different products from a cashew tree alone, which ideally should be a money making venture for the state.
“However, they and other farmers alike still need support, because there is no way to map out an accurate data of the amount or volume that is created. Several trainings, orientations, and synergies with Ministries like Agriculture are required, in order to create a vital boost to the state’s economy.
Responding, Hon. Shuaibu welcomed the idea.
“I want to first of all congratulate you on the successful program held in Anyigba yesterday. I felt it was paramount to meet with you because we want to ensure that any parastatal or agency under Ministry of Commerce and Industry succeeds.
“To be frank, Kogi might not be seen as a producing State because there is simply no data to show for it. Kogi being bordered by 8 states should be an immense opportunity to showcase her potentials, and what she can do, and I am glad this is being touched upon.
“Without this meeting, we might lack focus. However, from your presentation, there is no way we can’t achieve these targets we’ve set for ourselves.
“I can be humble, but I am focused. And I intend to make this Ministry, like all the places I have occupied before, work. And from the little I have seen since my arrival, I can assure you that I have a capable team that is determined, focused and ready to support you.
“So, please put in your best and we will succeed. Innovative ideas like this, is what we need in this new Administration. And by his grace, we shall make things work,” he said.
