Niger to partner China on agriculture, industrialisation

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has revealed that he spent part of his leave in China to learn about their agricultural and industrial practices, to explore how they can be replicated in Niger State.

Bago, who is part of President Bola Tinubu’s delegation in Beijing, China on an official visit attending the Forum of China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), stressed that he visited some states in China during his visit to acquire knowledge on the practices and possible partnerships.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Minna by the governor’s Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, Bago while speaking during the event on the visit with the President, hinted that the visit is an opportunity for Nigeria and China to foster a relationship for the economic development of Nigeria as various states will have the chance to showcase and have talks with the Chinese government for the good of the states and the country at large.

In Bago words: “This visit holds significant potential for Niger State through a partnership with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) on major infrastructure projects in Nigeria.

“Among these projects is the Nigerian Railway Modernisation Project, which includes the critical Ibadan-Minna, and Minna-Abuja sections. These railway projects are expected to substantially enhance transportation infrastructure in Niger State substantially, facilitating smoother, faster, and more efficient movement of goods and people, thereby boosting the state’s economy.”

Bago’s participation in the visit underscores Niger State’s strategic focus on securing international partnerships that will drive infrastructural development, agricultural partnerships, and economic growth, ultimately improving the living standard of people of the state.

His involvement in these discussions is anticipated to yield tangible benefits for the state. The proposed railway projects, once funded and executed, will not only enhance connectivity within Niger but also link it more effectively with key regions across Nigeria, facilitating trade and the movement of goods, especially agricultural produce.

The statement also explained that during the visit, Bago engaged with Huawei, one of the world’s leading technology companies. This engagement is poised to position Niger as a hub for innovation and technological advancement, potentially attracting further investments and creating job opportunities for its residents.

Accordingly, discussions with Huawei focused on launching and completing several major projects that will contribute directly to Nigeria’s technological progress, these projects include the establishment of the Africa Regional Network Operation Centre, the Innovation and Experience Dialogue Centre, the Cloud Computing Centre, and a Joint Solar Power Test Lab.

For Niger State, these developments are particularly significant, the successful implementation of the railway modernization projects will enhance connectivity within the state and to other regions, unlocking new opportunities for trade and investment.

It added that the focus on infrastructural development in areas such as river ports, aviation, and roads will ensure that Niger State becomes a critical hub in Nigeria’s transportation network and will not only improve the quality of life for the state’s residents but also make it a more attractive destination for businesses and investors.