By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his commitment to the state's development through a strategic partnership with the World Bank. The partnership encompasses eight major projects worth $885 million, aimed at addressing critical developmental challenges in the state.
AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, said the collaboration represents a significant step forward in enhancing the impact of projects across various sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare. "We applaud the governor's recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state," Shettima stated.
Shettima highlighted the impact of initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls' for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES). These projects, he said, have laid the groundwork for sustainable development and provided opportunities for youth empowerment and growth.
The AYCF president commended Governor Sani's commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project. This, he said, demonstrates the governor's dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.
Shettima urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government's efforts in implementing these projects. "It is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us," he emphasized.
The AYCF also commended Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank's Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, for recognizing Governor Sani's strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna's collaboration with the World Bank. "Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership," Shettima said.
The AYCF expressed its firm support for Governor Uba Sani's mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights. "We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity," Shettima stressed. "Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State."