By Godwin Kingsley, Lafia Nasarawa State Government has solicited for the collaboration of the United States in exploring its natural resources and harnessing its special educational institutions.
Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura made the call on Wednesday when he played host to the United States Ambassador to Nigeria James Entwistle and other members of the diplomatic corps at the Government House Lafia.
Governor Al-makura who described the visit as the first of its kind in the state said his administration has been able to put educational structures in place for people living with disabilities in all senatorial zones in the state adding that an intervention from US government would help to improve the quality of structures on ground.
“This government has started putting structures in place for special schools in all senatorial district for people living with disabilities and we would like you to partner with us in that aspect of education and also in the aspect of exploring our solid mineral potentials like in the area of mining,” he said.
The governor also thanked the US government for partnering with the state in the control of HIV/AIDS and polio.
Earlier, the US Ambassador James Entwistle who led other members of the diplomatic corps to the state, said his visit to the state was part of the continuing tour of the Middle Belt, to interact with people the people, learn more about security issues in the state and share US wishes for peaceful elections, good governance and a better future for Nigeria.
The Ambassador also emphasized the need for US – Nigeria bilateral relation in terms of security, democracy, education and health resources.
He added that the 2015 election will be an important test for Nigeria and urged politicians, the media, and individuals to make a pledge that they will not advocate, support or condone violence before, during and after the election.
The ambassador said that the diversity of the country should be a source of strength and not strive adding that no meaningful development can take place in the atmosphere of rancor, hatred and violence.
Prompt News Online reports that the Ambassador had earlier visited Makurdi in Benue state, and will visit Jos, Plateau State as part of his Middle Belt tours.
