Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum has said that his government would invest in strategic economic activities to reduce dependence on allocation from the Federal Government.
He noted that with proper investment in livestock and other avenues, the state’s revenue generation capacity would be improved and boost its resources.
The governor said this on Tuesday in Maiduguri, after the swearing-in of two new commissioners into the state executive council.
He also directed his cabinet to work on other avenues that would enhance the state’s economy, while shifting focus from the monthly allocations coming from Abuja.
“We must work hard and reduce our dependency on federal allocation. This is the time for us to start thinking out of the box and create wealth as soon as possible.”
“Let’s invest in projects that will bring money to the state; we can make a lot of money in livestock. We are not taking it lightly anymore. Let’s procure high-yield livestock and invest in milk production. The market is ready, and it doesn’t cost much for us to invest in milk production,” he explained.
Also on that regard, Zulum disclosed that his government will look into investments in aquaculture, adding that “there is money in the fishing business; we have vast potential in agriculture; all we need is to invest wisely.”
While emphasizing on the rich pastoral heritage of Borno, Zulum said the state can be a key player in the national and international beef markets.
“We can also invest in meat production, with the international wing taking off at our airport, we are close to Asian and Arab countries, so we can start exporting meat as soon as possible. We don’t need much to start but the commitment and political will,” he said.
In line with that economic ambition, Governor Zulum, announced the creation of a new ministry in the state.
He noted that the new body, Ministry of Livestock, would be managed by his deputy, Umar Usman Karafur, as supervising commissioner.
“I want to use this opportunity to announce the creation of a new Ministry of Livestock which should align its mission with that of the federal government,” Zulum added.
