In view of the challenges confronting the nation’s economy, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has called on the British’s Department for International Development (DFID) to assist the state organize an investment summit for the state to be exposed to the international community in order to draw more lifelines for its economic agenda.
The governor made the call while receiving a delegation of the DFID led by its Head of office in Nigeria, Ben Mellor, who was in the governor’s office on a courtesy visit.
Governor Ugwuanyi who was pleased by the visit, used the opportunity to thank the donor agency for its contributions towards sustainable development in Enugu State and commitment to continue to partner with the state on the issues of inclusive growth, continuity and consolidation of the laudable programmes of the state government.
He noted that the summit will not only discuss business opportunities in the state but will also be of immense benefit to the entire south east states in terms of investment promotion and enhanced economic growth.
The governor also added that the country in general and the south east geo political zone in particular need the assistance of the British government more than ever before, in the areas of e-learning/ exchange programmes, quality and affordable health facilities and alternative energy supply to support the primary health services in the rural areas.
“It may interest you to know that we have some challenges, we need solar panel to provide alternate energy to power our hospital facilities. We need more sophisticated equipment and facilities in our hospitals to measure up with the developed world.
“Don’t give us money; just put the facilities to help our people. We are suffering and we need help. So, under your planning for the next five years, help our people who are suffering to build good hospitals” the governor said.
Earlier in his address, the leader of the DFID delegation, Mellor, commended the governor for his initiative to constitute the Economic Advisory Committee, adding that it was an important venture that would assist the government to actualize its four-point agenda anchored on continuity and consolidation.
He disclosed the support of the DFID to the governor’s vision for the state and assured the governor that his requests will be given adequate attention in order to maintain the cordial relationship that exists between the two countries and actualize the set objectives of the agency.
