From Rashidat Suleiman,Minna
Niger State Government has reiterated its readiness to welcome investments in
all modes of transportation to drive economic growth and enhance public safety.
This was made known by the state Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba, when he received a team of marine journalists from the national inland waterways aimed at finding a lasting solution to the frequent occurrence of boat mishaps in the state.
The Deputy Governor revealed that the State is committed to supporting initiatives that promote development while safeguarding lives.
He stressed that the present administration of Farmer Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago places high premium on human lives and economic revitalization , as such, the present administration will not hesitate to support any effort that protects life, improves security and promotes economic growth.
Comrade Garba noted that states are often overwhelmed by competing demands in the areas of Agriculture, security, education and health, hence the need for stronger cooperation and collaboration between the Federal and State Government.
The Deputy Governor also maintained that despite waterways are very important, but compared to insecurity, food security, education, and healthcare , the Federal government needs to pay adequate attention in propelling their growth and development. He also urged the Federal Government to extend the similar collaboration it currently enjoys with the private sector in air, rail, and road transport to water transportation –adding that adequate routes and fibre boats in our waterways will go a long way in addressing the challenges we face.
“Our policies are often louder than our actions. Nigerian policy documents are among the best in the world, but the challenge lies in implementation,” he lamented.
The Deputy Governor advocates for a shift in mindset regarding superstitious beliefs in riverine communities, describing culture as a reality and superstition is a matter of perception– noting that In the 21st century technology should be prioritised not superstition.