Benue Seeks CBN’s Support To Develop Agric, Mining, Other Sectors

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has solicited the support of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, in streamlining the state’s economy to engender economic growth, employment, the development of vital infrastructure and technology, and enhanced financial inclusion.

A statement by the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Communications Strategy, Bridget Tikyaa, explained that the governor made the appeal when he paid a courtesy visit to the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso.

Tikyaa quoted the governor as saying, “Benue has vast opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, and other areas, which he wanted CBN to fully support the government in harnessing for local and international markets.”
The governor also urged the apex bank to support the state with its expertise in developing appropriate data in all the key areas of development for proper planning and strategic engagement with investors.

He hinted that the CBN governor of the state’s newly created Bureau of Statistics aimed to enhance the state’s statistical systems, boost our economy through job creation and foreign exchange activities, and support our agricultural sector.

He said, “We seek your support in providing system strengthening and equipment infrastructure for the state Bureau of Statistics. This support will not only benefit the Benue State government. Still, it will also enhance the capabilities of the CBN and Nigeria because a well-supported statistical system gives reliable data to guide our economic policies and development strategies.”

Governor Alia also reeled out other areas of support and collaboration with the CBN to boost the Benue state’s economy, including exporting sesame seeds to China and exploring mining opportunities for export. “These activities will diversify our economy, generate significant foreign exchange, and create employment opportunities for our people”, he added.

In his remarks, Cardoso commended Gov Alia for the visit and the initiatives aimed at diversifying the economy.

He said the Central Bank of Nigeria will take necessary measures to control the nation’s rising inflation.

” The apex bank re-echoed its commitment to the bank’s price stability mandate, adding that it remained optimistic despite the June 2024 uptick in headline inflation. Prices are expected to moderate in the near term,” he emphasised.