From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Henry Dele Alake, and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, affirmed President Bola Tinubu’s vision, knowledge, and courage in resetting Nigeria’s economy through various reforms and policies aimed at benefiting the citizenry.
Speaking at a one-day lecture organised by Arewa Think Tank (ATT) on the theme, “Agricultural Perspective of Nigeria in the Last 64 Years of Independence,” the Minister lauded Tinubu’s steadfastness.
“When Bola Tinubu became the governor of Lagos State in 1999, he introduced civil servants’ biometric registration despite resistance due to entrenched interests. This same courage is evident in his approach to Nigeria’s economy today, focusing on blocking leakages and plugging loopholes,” Alake said.
He highlighted Tinubu’s role in transforming Lagos into Africa’s sixth-largest economy through calculated policies. “President Tinubu’s 7-point agenda will elevate Nigeria, requiring our support to overcome temporary pains from these bold reforms.”
Governor Uba Sani acknowledged the challenges and temporary pains from the reforms but assured that Nigeria is already seeing improvements. “With patience and perseverance, Nigerians will soon feel the positive impacts of these reforms.”
Sani emphasised the importance of agriculture, recalling its role in Nigeria’s economy before the discovery of oil. He praised Tinubu’s administration for prioritising agriculture, mechanisation, and empowering smallholder farmers, calling the investment in agriculture unparalleled.
“President Tinubu’s creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development marks a historic step towards making Nigeria Africa’s leading livestock producer,” he added.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to rural transformation, extending infrastructure to local governments to foster economic growth.
Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr Sunday Dare, along with the Minister and Governor Sani, received awards from the Arewa Think Tank.