The Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas has stated the commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation with the German embassy in Nigeria to explore potentials in solid minerals, agriculture, and renewable energy sources in the state.
Governor Kefas stated this when he led a team of government officials to an interactive session with the German Ambassador, Ms. Annett Gunther in Abuja on the 11th of July 2023.
He described Germany as a friend of Nigeria and expressed optimism that the country will assist in the development of the natural endowment of the state.
Dr. Agbu Kefas informed the German Ambassador that his administration has been gender sensitive by appointing six women into the 21-member cabinet and deliberately assigning them sensitive and important ministries to supervise.
He noted with satisfaction the advocacy for women’s liberation by the German Ambassador, Ms. Annett Gunther, which is in line with the social engagement and child development agenda of his administration.
The Governor expressed the desire to seek the help of the country in exploiting solid mineral resources in the state in an environmentally sustainable manner, which was why he recently signed an executive order suspending all forms of mining in the state.
He said the transition towards renewable energy is very crucial and Germany can be a key partner in the realization of this goal globally.
He said the Embassy can also connect the state government with responsible investors who can exploit the vast mineral resources for the benefit of the citizens.
Responding, the German ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Annett Gunther congratulated the Governor on his recent election and expressed readiness to assist the State.
She said the embassy is honoured to receive such a high-profile delegation led by the Governor.
Though barely a year in Nigeria, she said the Nigerian election was competitive and exciting having followed it with keen interest.
The Ambassador said her experiences in other African countries like Kenya and Botswana will help as she establishes greater synergy with State Governors in Nigeria.
Ms. Gunther also assured that she will facilitate better cooperation between government and private German companies for smooth understanding and cooperation in trade and industry.
The meeting later went into closed doors where further issues bordering on cooperation and assistance were discussed.
Dr. Agbu Kefas later presented the Highland tea brand produced in Taraba state to Ambassador Annett Gunther.
The Governor was accompanied by the speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, the Secretary to Government of the State, Chief Gebon T. Kataps, Chief of Staff, Dr. Jeji Williams Mni, Permanent Secretaries; Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Solid Minerals and Liaison Office Abuja.
