Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa of Kaduna State yesterday said that the Northern part of the country can survive without relying on oil.
Yakowa who stated this while declaring the 33rd Kaduna International trade fair open said with the abundant natural resources which the region is endowed with, it is only obvious that the northern region can survive without necessarily depending on oil.
The Governor allayed fears of exhibitors, visitors as well as residents of the state that adequate measures had? been put in place to safeguard that lives and property.
“We also thank those of you that have made time and agreed to participate in this fair. You are true entrepreneurs who not only see opportunities but also take advantage of them at the right time. I salute your courage and determination and welcome you all to Kaduna State,” he said.
He said that there are enormous potentials in agriculture and mining in the North and that the only way out for the region? not to be over-dependent of oil and gas was to harness the potentialities in the agricultural and mining sectors of the economy.
“We? have enormous potentials in agriculture and mining.? If the north will concentrate on these two, we will have enough to transform this part of the country and the entire country as a whole.
“We are also developing our solid minerals sectors, our infrastructures and power sector, in addition to others, to a globally competitive status where we wish to have foreign direct investment on them,” he said.
The governor? also announced that one of the most reputable tractor manufacturers in the world, Massey Ferguson had agreed to establish a tractor manufacturing company in the state.
“Today I am happy to announce to you that a reputable American company (Massey Ferguson) has agreed to come and set up a tractor manufacturing company in Kaduna state. Details of these are being worked out,” the governor added.