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Abiodun Solicits American Supports for Ogun Developmental Programmes

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Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has expressed his administration’s openness to support from the United States Government in improving the lives of the state’s residents.

This statement was made during a courtesy visit from the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills, on Thursday at the governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyede, Abiodun emphasized his administration’s commitment to empowering citizens and enhancing their living standards over the past five years.

He stated, “Our vision on assumption of office was to improve the lives and livelihood of our people, and the policies of the present administration over the past five years have been consistent.”

Highlighting the impact of various initiatives, he noted the success of the Oko’wo Dapo program, which has benefited approximately 100,000 women by improving their financial capacity.

“We know that even though we have huge investments at the top end, the engine room of the economy is still at the small and medium scale end of it,” he explained.

Abiodun reiterated his administration’s dedication to sustainable development, saying, “We are working hard to put things in place that will leave a legacy of sustainable development and improve the lives of the people. As a state, we look forward to the support of the United States Government in what we are doing, and we are open to work with you and partner with you on any initiative that you have which will improve the lives of our people.”

The governor also highlighted significant investments in infrastructure and policies aimed at creating a business-friendly environment, which have led to increased foreign direct investment in the state.

“Facilities such as the Agro-cargo Airport have been provided to complement the various sectors of the state’s economy and the industries domiciled in the state to enable them import and export their goods without much stress,” he said.

He further added, “Just a few days ago, we had the groundbreaking ceremony for our dry port, so I hope our investors and manufacturers would not need to go all the way to Apapa Port. We are also having our integrated transport system to make sure that we make Ogun State desirable for investments.”

In response, Ambassador Richard Mills described Ogun State as a dynamic hub for business and economic opportunities, noting the presence of significant American investments.

“Through my discussions with the government officials, I have come to realize interesting programmes from small businesses to women entrepreneurs as well as huge investment opportunities that abound in the state,” he said.

Mills expressed his eagerness to engage with Ogun State, stating, “Ogun State is a state I wanted to visit for a long time since I arrived about five years ago in Nigeria. It is a state where we can learn a lot, share programmes based on the successes that you have here.”

Both leaders affirmed their commitment to fostering collaboration that would drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for the people of Ogun State.

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