Islamic Development Bank Commends Yobe’s Commitment to Agricultural Growth
By Baba Dan’Iya
The Islamic Development Bank has expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the Yobe State Government to partner with the bank for an agricultural project.
Mr. Javed Khan, Senior Agriculture Specialist of the Bank, stated this during a courtesy call on Governor Mai Mala Buni at the Government House, Damaturu, on Tuesday.
Khan noted that the Yobe State Government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations is highly impressive and encouraging.
Leading a team from the bank on an assessment tour of the state to examine the developed documents and on-ground preparations for the project, Khan expressed the team’s conviction in the government’s commitment.
“We were initially discouraged from visiting Yobe State due to security concerns, but we insisted on coming and were impressed by the peace and security, as well as the government’s dedication to the project,” Khan said.
“We are working towards a target in the next three months for the state to obtain approval from the bank for the project. The effective collaboration between our team and your team suggests that we will achieve our target within the stipulated timeframe,” he added.
In response, Governor Buni commended the Bank for not heeding the words of the state’s enemies of progress.
“I am glad you did not listen to them, some of whom have never been anywhere near Yobe State but spread false narratives about what they do not know,” Buni said.
“You are now here, have witnessed things for yourselves, and can tell the story more accurately. We are eager for this partnership, utilizing agriculture to drive the economy of our state and its people.”
“All 17 local government areas in the state are now accessible, allowing the people to reach their farms and contribute to the success of this proposed project,” Buni added.
The Governor emphasized the significance of agriculture to the people, stating, “This project would guarantee food security and economic prosperity in our post-insurgency recovery program.”
“The resilience demonstrated by our people in embracing agriculture as their primary pursuit to rebuild their lives after the prolonged insecurity is highly encouraging and requires support,” he said.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the bank to make agricultural development in the state a resounding success story.
