RSG, Norway to partner on agriculture and economic development programmes
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has berated Federal Agencies for being involved in desperate political blackmail against the state for the purpose of slowing down its rapid development.
Governor Wike stated that agents of the Federal Government are unhappy that Rivers as an opposition state is leading in terms of projects execution.
He spoke on Thursday at the Government House, Port Harcourt when he granted audience to the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens-Peter Kjemprud.
He said: “Don’t bother about the politicking. As an opposition state, when you are doing well in terms of project execution and good governance, the Federal Government blackmails you to drive away investors.
“We are focused on our goal of developing our state. Therefore, we shall continue to partner with foreign and national investors to develop the Rivers economy “.
He urged the Norwegian Government to partner with the Rivers State Government in the setting up of Ship Building Company, pointing out that investing companies will receive tax relief.
The governor also called for partnership in the area of agriculture, saying that Rivers State will provide the enabling environment for commercial agriculture investors, both in fishing and crop production.
“The establishment of a ship building company will build the skill base of youths, create employment opportunities and enhance the economy of the State. That is why we are happy with the development of this partnership “, the governor said.
He also called on Norway to set up a visa centre in Port Harcourt to cater for the South-South and South-East.
Earlier, the Ambassador of Norway to Nigeria, Jens-Peter Kjemprud said that Norway will support human capital development and Technology transfer in her relationship with Rivers State.
He said: “I will be supportive of any project that will enhance the economic development of Rivers State wherein Norwegian companies will be involved “.
He assured the Rivers State Governor that summits that will be beneficial to to the state in the areas of fish farming and the development of a sound aquaculture.
The Norwegian Ambassador added that Norway would also collaborate with Rivers State Government in the areas of energy, ship building and manpower development.
