President Goodluck Jonathan has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing factors militating against the implementation of revolutionary programmes in the South-South region.
Jonathan, represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, gave the assurance Thursday in Asaba, while declaring open the second South-South Economic Summit.
He said that taken into consideration the various transformations and development in the region orchestrated by the governors, “I can confidently say yes we can’’.
He explained that the Federal Government was in tune with the transformations hence the several policies being put in place to fast-track developments not only in the region but the country at large.
He, however, said that there was the need to urgently address the various factors militating against the progress and implementation of revolutionary programmes in the region.
The president, who disclosed that the major factors were transportation and power, however, said that the Niger Delta Ministry was working assiduously to develop the East-West Road.
He further revealed that the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday gave approval for 400 million dollars for the development gas.
He explained that the Federal Government was presently rehabilitating its abandoned railway system and had procured 45 new locomotives and also signed a memorandum of understanding for 200 more.
Jonathan said that the power plants in Edo and Bayelsa were almost completed, while there was construction for a transmitting and pipe line centres in the zone.
He said that the vision of the BRACED Commission was to diversify the development of the region beyond oil, as oil had become a limitation to development.
He said that in many part of the world, oil had created rivalry and war, but added that it could also be a blessing, as several countries in the world had no oil, but had robust economy.
The president said that the initiative of the BRACED states to diversify through education, tourism, agriculture, industralisation, roads, as well as human capital development was a right step in the right direction.
He emphasised that education was given priority rating, as the government intended to make it a right for every child.
He further said that security was also being enhanced in the country and called for patriotism from all.
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