Borno, Chad seek investment partnerships in key sectors

By Ahmed Ahmed

A delegation from Chad’s Zagawa Province has expressed interest in partnering with Borno Government to promote investment and economic cooperation in agriculture, livestock, education, energy and trade.

Dr Zanna Hassan, a traditional titleholder in the Borno Emirate, disclosed this in an interview with journalists after a meeting between the delegation and Borno government officials in Maiduguri.

Hassan said the visit aimed to strengthen historical relations, revive commercial ties and explore business opportunities capable of promoting regional integration among communities in Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon and Niger.

He explained that the discussions covered livestock development, agricultural cooperation, petroleum exploration, education, security and cross-border trade.

According to him, both sides agreed to develop a document outlining potential areas of cooperation for further consideration and implementation.

Hassan recalled that the Shehu of Borno had welcomed the delegation at his palace, reaffirming the longstanding brotherhood between the Kanuri and Zagawa peoples.

Similarly, Dr Bawu Musami, Borno Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, said the engagement would encourage agricultural investment, agro-processing and job creation.

Musami stressed the need to move beyond primary production to value addition, noting that farmers received only a small share of the benefits generated along agricultural value chains.

Dr Youssouf Tyera, Special Adviser at Chad’s Presidency, said the visit was aimed at establishing stronger partnerships in business, investment and education to promote shared prosperity in both countries.