Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has called for closer collaboration with the World Bank to accelerate the post-conflict recovery process in the state.

Dauda Iliya, the special adviser to the governor on media, said this in a statement on Saturday in Maiduguri.

He said the governor made the call during a meeting with the newly appointed country director, World Bank, Ndiame Diop, on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Zulum underscored the importance of the World Bank’s ongoing assistance in critical areas including education, agriculture, health and livestock development.

“I want to welcome you to Nigeria, and wish you success in your new assignment.

“Borno State has a strong collaborative relationship with the World Bank. My administration is investing heavily in healthcare, education, and agriculture sectors that are pivotal to our recovery strategy,” Mr Zulum said in the statement.

The governor, who highlighted the impact of the World Bank’s Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP), said it has facilitated execution of viable life-saving and transformative projects across the state.

The statement also quoted Mr Diop as pledging deepened partnership with Borno state in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture and livestock.

He commended the state’s performance in the implementation of the MCRP project, noting that Borno has been adjudged as the best state in project execution in Nigeria.

“Borno is leading in the implementation of MCRP projects across Nigeria,” he said.

Mr Diop said the bank would support efforts to reduce the malaria burden and strengthen the livestock sector, as the state contributes 50 per cent of livestock in the North-East, and generates about N3 trillion nationwide.

As peace returns to Borno, he said the World Bank aimed at supporting additional development initiatives to bolster the state’s economy and improve the livelihood of the citizens.

Mr Zulum was accompanied in the visit by the commissioners for health and environment, Baba Gana and Mohammed Emet Kois.

Others were the chief medical director, hospital management board, Abubakar Kullima, executive director, primary healthcare development board, Mohammed Arab Alhaji, among others. 

(NAN)