The Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has solicited the support of Ogun State citizens in the diaspora in his administration’s development stride.
Speaking at a discussion session with Ogun State citizens in the diaspora at the Victory House, Old Kent Road, Central London on Thursday, Amosun, who described the state as “work in progress”, said the call was borne out of the fact that government alone does not possess the wherewithal, either in funds or in wisdom, to fulfill all the needs of the people.
He said: “I therefore call on you to make your vast technical know-how and wide and varied networks available for the development of our state back home.
“As you continue to play the role of credible stakeholders in the economy of your host communities, you must also play active and effective roles in the socio-economic development of our state.
“Let me tell you, there are numerous openings that you can partner us for the development of Ogun State.”
Amosun spoke to a gathering of potential investors, representatives of the All Nigeria Congress, Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo and Ogun State chapters in the UK, members of SIA Forum, as well as indigenes of the state resident in England and Ireland.
He identified one area of possible cooperation as infrastructural development, adding: “You can come up with viable recommendations for the utilization of funds, or even help in the design, as a result of your vast technical competence.
“As professionals, you can also make your services available to our people.
“For example, medical professionals could come home to offer services, workshops and seminars to brush up our medical personnel at home with recent development in the health industry.
“Or even more, bring your vast network to play by attracting investment into Ogun State.
“There are ample opportunities for Public-Private Partnership.”
Amosun disclosed plans by his government to begin the construction of housing estates in Abeokuta, Ota and Ijebu-Ode and urged his audience to come and buy some of the housing units, adding that their investments in the provision of housing will be welcome, as his government plans to “house, cloth and feed Lagos.
“We wish to be to Lagos what New Jersey is to New York.”
He added: “We have the right ambience in the availability of land, good climate, abundance of natural resources, and what more.
“Our 5.1 million population provides one of the best trainable work force in the world.
“I assure you will find us worthy partners.
“Together, we must work hand-in-hand in this journey to greatness and jointly.
“We will take our state to the desired heights.”
