Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State has solicited the technical and financial support of Ogun indigenes in Diaspora in the state’s political and economic development.
He spoke at a session with Ogun State citizens in Diaspora at the Victory House, Old Kent Road, Central London, on Thursday, describing the state as “work in progress”.
The governor’s call was borne out of the fact that government alone does not possess the wherewithal, either in funds or in wisdom, to meet all the needs of the people.
“I, therefore, call on you to make your vast technical know-how and wide and varied networks available for the development of our state back home”.
“As you continue to play the role of credible stakeholders in the economy of your host communities, you must also play active and effective roles in the socio-economic development of our state”.
“Let me tell you, there are numerous openings that you can partner us for the development of Ogun State”, Amosun told a gathering of potential investors, representatives of the All Nigeria Congress (ACN) from Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo and Ogun state chapters in UK, members of SIA Forum as well as indigenes of the state resident in England and Ireland.
He identified infrastructural development as area for collaboration, adding that “you can come up with viable recommendations for the utilisation of funds, or even help in the design, as a result of your vast technical competence. As professionals, you can also make your services available to our people.
“For example, medical professionals could come home to offer services, workshops and seminars, to brush up our medical personnel at home with recent development in the health industry. Or even more, bring your vast network to play by attracting investment into Ogun State. There are ample opportunities for public-private partnership (PPP)”, the Ogun State chief executive noted.
Governor Amosun disclosed plans by his government to begin the construction of housing estates in Abeokuta, Ota and Ijebu-Ode and urged his audience to come and buy some of the housing units.
RAZAQ AYINLA
