The European Union has revealed intentions to partner with the Nasarawa State Government in the areas of digital economy and green energy to ensure the state’s economic diversification for sustainable growth and development.
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi, revealed this information during her inaugural visit to Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule on Wednesday at the Government House in Lafia.
She stated that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen the relationship with the state and establish a comprehensive partnership covering various dimensions, including climate change issues, economic relations, cooperation on democratic governance, peace, and security, among other areas.
Isopi, who also serves as the EU Ambassador to ECOWAS, clarified that the EU’s interest is to collaborate closely, offering mutual support in addressing the challenges that affect them.
She said, “We are an important development partner, definitely the first development partners of Nigeria in terms of grants.”
“We have a multi-dimensional cooperation which goes from peace, security, governance and migration to human development, education and health to green and digital economy.”
“We will support in agriculture, which is a very important sector for the economy of Nasarawa State. We will also support in the field of green energy, innovation and many other fields.”
“We are also active in renewable energies through a project, through which we support rural electrification and we work in particular with a few partners in the state.”
The EU Ambassador urged the Nasarawa state government to assist them in achieving their objectives in the state.
In response, Governor Abdullahi Sule expressed appreciation for the EU Ambassador’s visit, emphasizing the shared values between Nigeria, Nasarawa State, and the EU, including a commitment to peace, security, democratic principles, and social cohesion.
Governor Sule welcomed investment opportunities in oil and gas, agriculture, clean energy, and solid mineral development, particularly highlighting the focus on lithium development.
He emphasized the state’s support for education, skills, and vocational training as part of efforts to address unemployment and empower young people.
The governor also highlighted Nasarawa’s agricultural potential, noting its leading position in sesame production in the country.
He mentioned the growing interest from investors in sesame processing, emphasizing the significant benefits for the state and its residents.
“By early next year, we are going to have the first sesame seed processing company in the state,” he said
He also highlighted the possibilities in cassava and sugarcane production, pointing out the involvement of the Dangote Sugar Company to attract investor interest in ethanol production for energy generation.
Governor Sule affirmed that the state government is committed to collaborating closely with the EU to foster economic development in the state, among other areas.