By Nanji Nandang
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State, central Nigeria, says his administration is determined to support farmers in the state revamp flower production and export to status of the 1970s and 80s.
Lalong stated this on Thursday, after a meeting with French investors in Jos, as he designates Yakubu Gowon Airport, Jos, as Cargo Airport, to be complemented by Inland Container Terminal, which is being activated.
Noting that the export of flowers will be seamless, he urged farmers in the state to take interest in flower production, as it is economically viable and in demand at the international market.
The governor applauded some of the farmers that have ventured in flower production, saying it has reinforced the government to encourage and support interested farmers to go into the production.
Speaking in the same vein, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hosea Finangwai, reiterated that the state has a structure for agricultural business and support by the African Development Bank in potato production.
Responding, the leader of the French team, Yan Fortunato, who toured six Local Government Areas of the State, said they are convinced by the enormous agricultural potential in the state, though it needs to be developed through mechanization and improved practices.
Fortunato said the team has come to Nigeria on behalf of some business partners in France, to survey suitable areas for potato production, value chain development, flower production and export, cashew production and processing and forest development.
He promised to convey their findings to their partners and return within a short time to process their partnership with the state in establishing their businesses.