Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has urged the federal government to expedite action on the development of the Funtua Integrated Textile and Garment Park to boost the socio-economic activity of the state.
The governor made the plea at the official commissioning of Funtua Inland Dry Port (FIDP) that was performed by the secretary to the government of the federation, Sen George Akume, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu on Thursday.
Gov Radda added that the project would help to revitalise the textile industry and also create employment opportunities, as well as attract investment, among other benefits.
The governor is also asking for the rehabilitation of the rail line, extension of the AKK gas pipeline project from Zaria to Funtua, stressing that this would ensure the full functionality of the FIDP and connect it with other major economic centres of Nigeria.
According to the governor, the rail line is also vital for transportation and would reduce cost and facilitate the efficient movement of goods from the dry port, explaining that the port would benefit both the state and the nation’s economy and also reduce the level of insecurity through jobs creation.
He disclosed that his administration has developed strategic economic plans by establishing a state enterprise development agency and an economic council, all geared towards repositioning the state’s economy.
He urged the regulatory agencies at the port to exhibit understanding and professionalism in their work and collaborate to ensure efficient operations.
In an address, President Tinubu, represented by the SGF, Sen George Akume, said the FIDP is the third out of six across the geo-political zones completed and commissioned.
He reiterated the determination and commitment of the federal government to prioritising the completion and utilisation of more dry ports in the country.
Currently, he said, the federal government is targeting the intensive rehabilitation of roads, rail lines and waterways to facilitate smooth trade, reduce transportation costs and enhance the ease of doing business.
He appealed to the state government and members of the host communities to consider the investment as part of the national assets that should be well-protected.
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