Benue Seeks CBN’s Support On Agric, Mining

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

A statement by the principal special assistant to the governor on media, publicity and communications strategy, Bridget Tikyaa, said the governor made the appeal when he visited  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 the CBN to support the government to fully harness for local and international markets.

The governor also urged the apex bank to support the state with expertise in developing appropriate data in all the key areas of development for proper planning and strategic engagement with investors.

He hinted the CBN governor on the state’s newly created  Bureau of Statistics aimed at enhancing statistical systems, boosting  economy through job creation and foreign exchange activities and  supporting the agricultural sector.

“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 but will also enhance the capabilities of the CBN and Nigeria at large, because a well-supported statistical system gives a reliable data to guide our economic policies and development strategies,” the governor said.

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

According to him, the Central Bank will take necessary measures to bring the nation’s rising inflation under control.

He re-echoed the apex bank’s commitment to price stability, adding that it remained optimistic despite the June 2024 uptick in headline inflation.