Ekiti attracts over $100million for Airport, Agric zones, others

Rasaq Ibrahim, Ado Ekiti

Ekiti state government has said efforts are at top gears to attracts a whopping sum of $100million to invest in some critical infrastructures that are key to accelerate the socio-economic development of the state.

The State commissioner for Information, Hon. Olumuyiwa Olumilua made this known while addressing a press conference to herald the activities marking first year anniversary of Governor Kayode Fayemi with the theme, “Walking the talk…Restoring values, Enhancing Impact.”

Olumilua said government was already into partnership with some private investors and development partners that would eventually attract to the state over $100million to finance Ekiti Knowledge Zone, Special Agriculture Processing Zone, Ado-Akure Road, and Ekiti Airport as well as $5million to revive the moribund Ikun Dairy farm.

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These projects, according to him will ensure that Ekiti becomes the hub of the service and knowledge industry in Nigeria, consolidate the state’s place as a leading agricultural hub, and also improve access and connectivity for business and recreational travellers.

”Other projects include the World Bank funded NEWMAP and RAAMP projects which will improve the water supply to Ekiti people, and open up rural access roads to enable the easy evacuation of our farm produce.”

He affirmed that government would continue to invest heavily in education and healthcare of the people to ensure a skilled and healthy workforce. He explained that human capital forms the basic requirement to attract investments and other rewards to the state adding that the State’s development plan is hinged on the need to lay a solid foundation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The commissioner confirmed that government would leverage on the state’s competitive advantages and history by focusing on agriculture and agri-business, knowledge and economy services, tourism and hospitality, and solid minerals saying it would prioritize development of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone, and the Special Agriculture Processing Zone that will make Ekiti the destination of choice for investors.