Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna and the former Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Uche Ekwunife have engaged the African Export-Import Bank over infrastructure development of the South East geopolitical region.
The discussion detailed on involvement of South East Governors Forum in order to fasTrack development even as the engagement was said to have reached an advanced stage.
SEGOF on Friday led by its Director General, Senator Uche Ekwunife and Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna held talks with AFREXIMBANK President, Prof Benedict Okey Oramah.
Key areas of the meeting centered on attracting investments into the South-East through the construction of Cargo and Passenger Rail, Energy, revitalization of moribund industries, construction and rehabilitation of interstate roads, improvement of the region’s aviation industry, among others.
Additionally the engagement which had the attendance of other stakeholders from the Government and private sector also identified the need for adequate provision of basic amenities and other subsidiary projects within the zone, with a view to foster a formidable value chain of economic activities needed for the economic advancement of the region.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Senator Ekwunife described the partnership as strategic, mentioning its anticipated potential to boost Transportation, Trade and Industry across the South-East region, Nigeria and beyond.
She said; “I urge the people of the South-East region, especially community leaders and youth leaders to see every single project coming to the region as a collective responsibility, aimed at opening up the region for higher productivity and rapid development”.
Ekwunife beckoned Southeasterners to eschew action that could jeopardize the realisation of the objectives.
Ekwunife expressed satisfaction with the willingness of AFREXIMBANK to invest in the zone, noting that the bank’s decision to partner with the Forum could not have been possible without the collaboration, unity of purpose, and regional diplomacy of the South-East governors.
The former Lawmaker also rallied support for the South-East governors as she expressed that the Governors remain committed to the provision of security and enabling framework for sustainable development of the region.
Governor Nwifuru lauded the knowledge and commitment of AFREXIMBANK President, Prof Benedict Oramah to develop his home soil.
“He is a leading player in the global banking community and his financial ingenuity has placed him on a pedestal, and created an endurable track record for the bank within Nigeria, Africa, and at the global stage, ” Nwifuru expressed.
Prof Oramah in his remarks assured the Forum of his commitment towards supporting viable proposals, noting that the intentions of the South-East Governors as discussed during the meeting would be prioritized and given adequate attention.
He also expressed appreciation for the recognition accorded to him by the Regional Chief Executives of the South-East States.
