“We were initially discouraged not to come to Yobe state, citing insecurity but, we insisted on coming and are impressed with the peace and security (we found), and the government’s commitment to the project.”
This was the verdict of Mr. Javed khan, Senior Agriculture Specialist at the Islamic Development Bank. He spoke when he led a team from the Bank on assessment tour of the state to see for itself the documents developed and the preparations on ground for the project. He was on a courtesy visit to Governor Mai Mala Buni at the government House in Damaturu, the State capital.
He expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the state government to partner the bank for the proposed agricultural project.
Javed Khan stressed that the commitment of the state government to meeting its obligations is quite impressive and encouraging.
Javed Khan said that the team was convinced with government’s committment to the project.
“We are working towards a target in the next three months for the state to obtain approval from the bank for the project.
“The working synergy between our team and your team suggests that we will achieve our target within the stipulated time frame.”
This was as Governor Buni commended the Bank for not listening to the enemies of progress of the state.
“l am glad you did not listen to them, some of whom have never been anywhere close to Yobe state but giving stories about what they don’t know.
“You are now here and you have seen things for yourselves and can tell the story better. We are ready for this partnership using agriculture to drive the economy of our state and the people.
“All the 17 local government areas in the state are now accessible and the people can access their farms and make this proposed project successful.”
The Governor explained the importance of agriculture to the people, saying: “this project would guarantee food security and economic prosperity in our post insurgency recovery programme.
“The resilience exhibited by our people in embracing agriculture being their major preoccupation to rebuild their lives after the protracted insecurity is very encouraging and need to be supported.”
Governor Buni made clear that with proposed partnership with the bank, agricultural development in the state will attain a huge success.