Discussions between the South-East Governors Forum (SEGOF) and the African Export-Import Bank, (AFREXIMBANK) to expedite the infrastructure development of the South-East region on Friday reached an advanced stage as both parties agreed on strategies to achieve the goal.

SEGOF led by its Director General, Senator Uche Ekwunife and Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, held talks with AFREXIMBANK President, Prof Benedict Okey Oramah in Abuja.

Key areas of the meeting centered on attracting investments into the South-East through the construction of Cargo and Passenger Rail, Energy, revitalization of moribund industries, construction and rehabilitation of interstate roads, improvement of the region’s aviation industry, among others.

Additionally, the engagement which had the attendance of other stakeholders from the Government and private sector also identified the need for adequate provision of basic amenities and other subsidiary projects within the zone, with a view to foster a formidable value chain of economic activities needed for the economic advancement of the region.

Speaking on the meeting’s outcome, Senator Ekwunife, described the partnership as strategic, mentioning its anticipated potential to boost Transportation, Trade and Industry across the South-East region, Nigeria and beyond.

She said; “I urged the people of the South-East region, especially community leaders and youth leaders to see every single project coming to the region as a collective responsibility, aimed at opening up the region for higher productivity and rapid development”.

Ekwunife beckoned South easterners to eschew actions that could jeopardize the realisation of the objectives.

She expressed satisfaction with the willingness of AFREXIMBANK to invest in the zone, noting that the bank’s decision to partner with the Forum could not have been possible without the collaboration, unity of purpose, and regional diplomacy of the South-East governors.

The former lawmaker also rallied support for the South-East governors as she expressed that the Governors remain committed to the provision of security and enabling framework for sustainable development of the region.

Governor Nwifuru lauded the knowledge and commitment of AFREXIMBANK President, Prof Benedict Oramah to develop his home soil.

“He is a leading player in the global banking community and his financial ingenuity has placed him on a pedestal, and created an endurable track record for the bank within Nigeria, Africa, and at the global stage,” Nwifuru expressed.

Prof Oramah in his remarks assured the Forum of his commitment towards supporting viable proposals, noting that the intentions of the South-East Governors as discussed during the meeting would be prioritized and given adequate attention.

He also expressed appreciation for the recognition accorded to him by the Regional Chief Executives of the South-East States. (New Telegraph)

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