Canada to spend N6b on health and agriculture in Bauchi

The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Perry John Calderwood, has disclosed that Canadian government would spend N6 billion to improve the agriculture and health sectors of Bauchi state.

The high commissioner, represented by Counsellor and Head of Development Cooperation Global Affairs, Miss Linda Elrichs, disclosed this yesterday during an official launch of the Livelihood and Nutrition Empowerment (LINE) and the Bauchi Opportunities for Responsive Maternal Neonatal and Child Health (BORN) projects in the state capital.

The five-year LINE and BORN projects are being implemented by development partners, including Oxfam and Plan International, with funding from the Canadian government.

Elrichs said the Canadian Commission is supporting the state with funds to complement its efforts at addressing poverty by empowering farmers and to reduce diseases, as well infants and maternal mortality rates through strengthening health and education institutions.

Speaking during the launch, Oxfam Associate Country Director, Ms. Evelyn Mere, disclosed that the relationship between the state and Canada has been renewed through the launch of the projects, in line with the goals of the government to prioritise health and agriculture, areas she said the commission also focuses on. Governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar said the government was ready to provide enable environment for donor agencies interested in the state.