By David Okpashi.
LAFIA –Two states in the North central Nigeria: Nasarawa and Benue states, have set agenda to address insecurity, food crisis and attract investments as well as economic development to the two states.
Towards the realization of the set goals, the two state Governors have agreed to review existing strategies to end killings and improve on food production and sustenability.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State while speaking with Journalists after a closed door meeting with Nasarawa state governor Abdullahi Sule in lafia, disclosed that the two states have taken a far reaching measures that would bring about peaceful co-esistence, improve on opportunities to grow the agriculture and solid minerals that abound in the two states and explored other ways for the benefit of the two states.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who described Nasarawa and Benue states as one family, noted that the two states had no reason suffering from insecurity, food crisis and sustainable economic prosperity,hence the need to constantly re-strategize on actions that would grow the two states.
“Nasarawa and Benue states are in north central Nigeria. Nasarawa is rich in solid minerals and Benue is blessed in agriculture. As neighbouring states, farmers, herders clashes, communal issues and banditry have lingered thus creating a negative narrative so we are exploring possible ways of addressing them” Governor Alia stated.
“My visit to Nasarawa state apart from been a friendly one is to seek ways of promoting proper economic positioning and unity especially with the current hardship affecting their people”, the governor added.
While commending the developmental projects in Nasarawa state, the Benue state governor, however, indicated interest to replicate some of the projects in Benue state.
Responding, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State said the two states which shared common things in the North Central region would in the coming months see the benefits, actions for mutual growth.
Governor Sule also used congratulated his Benue state counterpart on the recent leadership Award noting that it was a recognition that governor Alia is doing well for the people of Benue state.
“Your visit to Nasarawa state will not only strengthen the working relationship but also put an end to the in assessment killings, improve on infrastructural development as well as food production in which the two states are noted for in Nigeria.
“I want to assure you that Nasarawa state and Benue will continue to be in the forefront of championing the course of peace, stability and growth not only in the North central region but the entire country,” he said.
