Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has described the State as key to the economic prosperity of the nation.
The Governor made the disclosure while addressing a group, Kogi Hope Alive in Lokoja, Tuesday. He said Kogi State carries the hope of a nation towards economic renaissance.
Speaking through his Director General of Media and Publicity, Kingsley Fanwo, Bello said the State remains one of the most important drivers for a diversified economy that will be less dependent on oil.
He said, “The Ajaokuta Steel Project can spark a behemoth of economic and industrial revolution. Steel production is one of the surest path to becoming a global player politically, economically and industrially. Ajaokuta Steel can provide a steady path to national greatness.
“Kogi State is blessed with a good number of mineral resources. The State has the highest number of mineral resources in the country today and this could be harnessed to revive the economy of the nation.
“We are aware of the efforts of the Federal Government at bringing the project and others in the State on stream. A private sector-led economy will reduce our cost of running government as the size of the civil service will be such that our resources can manage.
“We call on the Federal Government to expedite action on the Ajaokuta Steel and the Iron Ore Project at Itakpe to help the administration’s drive to economic diversification and industrial revolution. The two projects will have a massive impact on our economy as well as create thousands of jobs”.
Governor Bello also expressed confidence in President Muhammadu Buhari to weather the storm of global conspiracy against steel production in developing countries, saying the nation expends huge resources on steel importation annually.
“Nigeria must get it right in her iron and Steel sector. Developed countries know what it means for a country as Nigeria to embark on massive iron and steel production. But we must weather the storm and become a global player in the steel market”.
The Governor called on investors to see Kogi State as a fertile land for investment, saying his administration has made the processes of investment less rigorous and friendly. He said his administration has been able to conquer insecurity, saying security agents are working to ensure security of lives and property in the State.
Bello urged communities in the State to accommodate investors, saying the future of Nigeria depends on the private sector. He urged investors to adhere to social responsibilities as his government will ensure investments are well protected.
