Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Canadian Government has indicated its interest in exploring potential partnerships with Rivers State on the development of its natural resources.
This was part of the focus of the discussion that took place between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr James Christoff, when they met behind closed doors at Government House in Port Harcourt, recently.
Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, Mr Christoff expressed satisfaction with the issues discussed and mutually endorsed, and expressed willingness to ensure their actualisation, separately and collectively to their benefit.
The High Commissioner stated that Canada was seeking to collaborate with Rivers State on natural resources development, citing the State’s abundance of natural resources as a major attraction.
The envoy pointed to how expressively he divulged the determination of his country to explore areas “where we can always look to take a very good situation and raise the bar in terms of how we benefit.
He said, “In our case, as Canada, from natural resources and what it brings to a community. And so, we shared some insights on that particular issue, and of course, there are the people-to-people ties that are growing between Nigeria and Canada that are very important.
“And we look for ways to, maybe, tap into the many Nigerians who have a foot in both countries, to the benefit of both countries. So, it was a very good discussion. I’m very happy to be here.”
Mr Christoff further said: “Well, I would say that in terms of business development, that’s a two-way street. Of course, it’s part of our job, part of my job as Canada’s High Commissioner to Nigeria to try and unpack the opportunities that reside here for our companies, and I think we’re making great strides in that.
“And so, wherever I go, when I visit, pay visits on governors across the great country of Nigeria, I always look to find the areas where we might bring our companies and the host government to collaborate.
“As I mentioned, the natural resource sector is one such area, and I look forward to further discussions with state governments, and how we might benefit collectively,” he added.
He noted the peaceful and hospitable ambience in the State, stressing that the Canadian government and companies were satisfied with the opportunities that exist in the State, and were tapping into existing policies to further boost mutual collaborations.
Although the Canadian envoy did not specify on the particular natural resources his country would invest in the state, the potential partnership is expected to focus on areas such as oil and gas, mining, and other natural resources, with the goal of stimulating economic growth and development in Rivers State.
