Cross River government seeks mutual cooperation with Canada
The Government of Cross River State, has solicited cooperation with the government of Canada for economic development, human empowerment, and sundry mutual benefits.
Governor Bassey made the call in Calabar while addressing a delegation led by the Country Director, Global Affairs Canada, (GAC), Djifa Ahado, and other development partners who were in his office on a courtesy visit.
According to the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Otu, Emmanuel Ogbeche, Governor his principal lauded the effort of the Canadian government in supporting capacity building for women as well as economic empowerment in the state.
“We are looking for effective bilateral discussions to improve critical areas like Information and Communication Technology (ICT), agriculture, and agro-allied industry.”
Also, he commended the implementing partners for their enormous impact on Cross River through the support from the Canadian government.
“We are happy with what you are doing not just in Cross River, but Nigeria at large. We are glad to partner with Canada in the advancement of society.”
He noted that Africa is the next emerging economy that must be considered for greater partnerships, assuring that his administration would continue to partner with the Canadian government and other relevant agencies to boost economic growth in the State.
In her speech, the Country Director, Global Affairs Canada, (GAC), Djifa Ahado, stated that the essence of the visit was to keep the Governor abreast of the efforts of the Canadian Government through the various implementing partners in the last decade in the State, and the desired impact on women and girls as catalysts to addressing poverty and growing the economy.
“We are working to enhance women’s political participation, economic empowerment, and many other aspects of women’s lives. Cross River is among the States that have the best impact, so we want to make sure that the Governor is aware of the different efforts we have been making.
“The impact has been very positive and sustainable. We want to see organizations that we are supporting continue to thrive in Cross River and Nigeria at large, hence the need for greater partnership with the State government to sustain already existing programs executed through the support of the Canadian Government,” Ahado said.
Implementing partners on the team were ActionAid Nigeria, UN Women, and CUSO International.
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
