Sustainable Growth: FG To Partner Japan Int’l Cooperation Agency

In order to foster collaboration among the Ministry of Regional Development and Japan International Cooperation Agency, the FG has commenced talks.

The Federal Government through the Minister of State, Ministry of Regional Development, Honourable Uba Maigari Ahmadu, commenced this talk to engender multi-sectoral growth in the North East, North West, and North Central regions of the country.

Hon Maigari, who was on a working visit to the JICA office located at No.12 Charles De Gaulle street, Asokoro, Abuja, on Monday called for the establishment of robust partnership in key development areas such as provision of housing settlements, infrastructural development, vocational training, youth empowerment, ICT training hubs, and skill acquisition programs, aimed at driving sustainable growth and development in the regions.

In a press statement signed by Abdulrashid Y Safana, Head, Press & PR Unit, it stated that
“During the engagement, the Minister revealed that “the ministry which was created on 23rd October 2024, has the responsibility of overseeing the Commissions under its auspices,” adding that “the whole idea is to bring them closely under the supervision of the Ministry for proper synergy and ease of operations.

“While underscoring the core mandate of the Ministry as well as its areas of focus, Maigari Ahmadu expressed unwavering passion for the fulfilment of the Ministry’s obligations to the regions, which, according to him, was what recently took him to Borno state, a state notorious for banditry and insurgency, on facility inspection tour.

“The Minister noted that his recent visit to Borno state offered him the opportunity to see the dire need to kick-start revolutionary projects and solve infrastructural desolation in the areas already devastated by the Boko Haram insurgents, expressing optimism that the proposed collaboration with JICA could aid in fast-tracking the much needed development in these regions.”

He assured that his Ministry will come up with the appropriate enabling framework to address all the possible areas of concern that might arise in the course of the proposed partnership.

He clarified the role of the Ministry to the commissions as one of concerted efforts to achieve a common goal rather than impede operations of the various commissions under its supervision, and assured JICA of prioritising issue of security in the course of developing the proposed partnership framework.

The Minister particularly stressed on the crucial role the ministry played in rehabilitating and reconstructing communities affected by insurgency and economic challenges in the NEDC, and opined that by collaborating with JICA, the Ministry aims to enhance the scope and impact of its developmental initiatives, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary support to rebuild and thrive. “This partnership will provide a structured approach to infrastructure revitalisation, economic empowerment, and capacity development; strengthening the nation’s resilience and fostering long-term stability,” the Minister hinted.

Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmadu applauded JICA’s long-standing support of 25 years and reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to fostering strategic partnerships that drive infrastructural and human capital development.

In his response, JICA Chief Representative to Nigeria, Susumu Yuzurio, expressed gratitude over the Minister’s visit and expressed JICA’s willingness to explore possible areas of collaboration with the Ministry of Regional Development.

Speaking further, Susumu outlined JICA’s Cooperation Strategy in Nigeria, which included building a foundation for sustainable and resilient society for economic growth, building an inclusive and resilient health and medical system, promoting peace and stability. All these he said “are aimed at promotion of high-quality and inclusive economic and social development as well as stabilization of society.”

Susumu elucidated that JICA, as Japan’s principal international development agency, operates with the core mandate of advancing economic and social growth in developing nations like Nigeria through technical cooperation, financial aid, training for MDAS, capacity building, and grant assistance. He also pointed out that the agency focuses on capacity building, infrastructure development, and policy formulation to create a more resilient and self-sufficient society.

In the same vein, he revealed that by leveraging its expertise in these areas, JICA has successfully implemented various projects across Nigeria, hand-in-hand with NEDC, of which the Ministry of Regional Development now serves as a mother body, as well as other organisations charged with the same mandate for sustainable development of the regions. He, however, expressed some concerns as regards security challenges and the mode of operation in terms of authorisation.

Mr. Susumu pleaded for time to fully study and analyse the collaboration proposal and revert back to the minister as appropriate.

The Minister’s visit marks a significant step towards reinforcing Nigeria-Japan relations and enhancing development initiatives tailored to improve livelihoods and economic resilience in the targeted regions. The collaboration between JICA and the Ministry of Regional Development is expected to set the foundation for more extensive programs that will catalyse sustainable growth and development in the targeted regions,” the statement reads.