Kwara Govt, Zimbabwean Farmers Sign Pact
From Tunde Sanni in Ilorin
Governor Bukola Saraki of Kwara State yesterday led Mr. Allan Jack, the leader of the Zimbabwean farmers who came to invest in large scale agricultural farming in the state to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
Saraki shortly before appending his signature on the memorandum noted that "when few months ago we began this process, we were not sure how far we could go. We give glory to Almighty Allah that this day, we stand on the threshold of history. Today, we put Kwara State on the map of the world."
The governor hinted that his focus on agriculture was predicated on the unpredictability of international oil economy.
"We must therefore build an alternative economic base because the volatility of international oil economy that we so much depend on certainly does not permit this.
"In doing this, we must choose that which best represents our capacity and capability and that which holds the greatest number of our people," he said.
Saraki explained that by choosing agriculture as a priority area of development, his government was not only responding to a natural opportunity but also to a conviction that food security for Africans was the best means to achieve sustainable development.
"We are also convinced that it is only in the agriculture and agro-allied economy that Africa can begin to claim its space in the global market arena".
"With this modest step of ours, let it be recorded for us that Kwara State has started, from now on, there is no looking back," he said.
Saraki noted that with the memorandum of understanding, the government will at all times do that which is in the best interest of the people of the State.
He called for people to show good hospitality to the white farmers and make the best use of the opportunities of their presence.
Saraki saluted the white farmers for the faith they have in the state and assured them that "you have chosen to walk with us, we shall protect you, we shall protect your investment and we shall do all within our means to keep you happy here". The leaders of the Zimbabwean farmers assured that the stay will be beneficial to small scale farmers and the generality of the people of the state.
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