Niger, NRC partnership will end post-harvest challenges — Gov Bago

Niger State Governor, Muhammad Bago, has expressed concern over logistical challenges that affect post-harvest activities but remains optimistic that partnering with the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) will resolve these issues.

Bago made the observation during his discussion with the Managing Director of NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa, at the palace of the Oniru of Iru-land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogholaha Lawal Abiosogun II, in Lagos.

The governor noted that his administration will continue discussions with the NRC to ensure a solid partnership for the safe transportation of food items within Nigeria by rail.

He disclosed that Niger State has keyed into the food security initiative of the Federal Government, and it is doing very well, saying that having a deal with the NRC will be a boost.

Bago appreciated the Oniru of Iru-Land for his warm reception and continuous support to him as a person and to his administration, acknowledging the existing cordial relationship with him.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the NRC, Opeifa, assured the governor that the corporation will support his administration with logistics and the supply chain process within the country, as they are part of its mandate.

He noted that the NRC has aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu and will support every state of the federation and businesses involved in productive ventures that would bring down the cost of goods, just like what Niger Foods under the agricultural initiative of Governor Bago is doing.

Dr. Opeifa said the corporation will also ensure that the food items get to their destinations at a good price and in a well-preserved condition to achieve the food security agenda of the Federal Government.

The Managing Director said he is committed to the project and promised to work closely and assiduously with Niger Foods to achieve all targets with the utmost efficiency.

While describing the palace of Oba Abiosogun as a home to all, the Managing Director of NRC commended the Oba for revolutionising agriculture not only in Lagos but in Nigeria as a whole.

Also speaking, Oba Abiosogun reiterated his support to the Niger State government to actualise the food security initiative under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu.

Oba Abiosogun said that he had met several times with the Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun, and the Minister of Finance, who also doubles as the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on how to make Niger Foods thrive for Lagos State to benefit, being a commercial capital with a high population.

He described the Chairman of Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun, as audacious, good, and resourceful, adding that with him supporting Governor Bago in the agricultural space, a lot will be achieved.

Earlier, Adigun had said the Niger State government is working tirelessly to seal the deal with the NRC, considering its importance.
He expressed hope that within a couple of months, there would be train services between Minna and Lagos.

Recall that the Niger State government had, some months ago, opened discussions with the NRC to establish a partnership that would provide all necessary support to end the post-harvest losses associated with logistics, among others.