President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to collaborate with the Niger state government to advance the green economy for environmental sustainability.
He made the commitment during the inaugural 1st Niger State Green Economy Summit in Minna, themed “Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity.”
President Tinubu expressed his administration’s dedication to promoting the green economy in Nigeria.
The President’s remarks were delivered by Senator Aliyu Abdullahi Sabi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, who lauded President Tinubu as a visionary leader.
He highlighted the approval of a new solid mineral policy to enhance the efficient utilisation of resources.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the citizens, the current APC-led administration called for understanding and prayers, assuring that the nation’s economy would soon rebound.
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State declared his commitment to safeguarding the environment and securing a prosperous future.
The summit aimed to mobilise actions at both sub-national and national levels and define collective strategies to harness green assets and innovation for economic prosperity.
Governor Bago revealed the state government’s inaugural Green Economy Blueprint, a strategic document outlining a visionary roadmap that will guide development choices and actions.
This blueprint will be presented to stakeholders for review and input, subsequently incorporated into the appropriation proposals for 2024 and beyond.
Bago said: “The blueprint provides a comprehensive guide encompassing the state’s vision, objectives, strategies, and actions, with a focus on transforming the region into a beacon of environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically robust green prosperity.”
“This encompasses crucial sectors such as renewable energy, transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, inclusivity, and tourism.”
Speaking at the event, Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Zulum pledged to partner with Niger State to realise the green economy potential in both states and throughout the country.
He urged participants to come up with recommendations that would be beneficial to future generations.
A former Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu expressed his sympathy for Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, who faces the challenging task of covering 16 years of state development within an 8-year term. He emphasised the need to protect forests and prevent bush burning for environmental preservation.
A former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar challenged governments to prioritise the sustainability and revitalisation of the green economy.
He commended Governor Bago and Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Zulum for their efforts in harnessing the green environment for societal improvement.
