UYO (Sundiata Post) – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has canvassed greater participation in foreign direct investment between the state government, people of Jamaica and the Republic of Belgium to facilitate economic and bilateral cooperation.
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Governor Emmanuel solicited the participation during a courtesy visit on him by the Jamaican High Commissioner to Nigeria Mrs. Ann Scott, accompanied by some Belgium diplomats at Government House, Uyo.
The governor stated that economic opportunities abound in the coastal communities, particularly at the beaches, the ongoing deep sea ports and the sporting facilities which would boost tourism exchange between Akwa Ibom and the respective countries.
He maintained that the age-long brotherly identity existing between the people of Akwa Ibom, Jamaica and Belgium would help in building cultural ties in music, cuisine and particularly commended the interest of the two counties in promoting the humanitarian legacies of the Legendary Mary Slessor in Akwa Ibom State .
He remarked that his administration has already immortalised the late Slessor by naming streets and celebrating her role in the abolition of the killing of twins, adding that the cordial relationship would be maintained.
Earlier, the Jamaica High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ann Scott noted that the hospitality nature of the people of Akwa Ibom has been appreciated across states, saying that the visit was her first time of coming to Akwa Ibom.
She acknowledged that Jamaicans are proud people of African descent stating that several features identify Jamaica, Belgium and Akwa Ibom and mentioned the beautiful scenery, Culture, humanitarian services as well as food products as areas where the Countries share in similarities.
She commended Nigerians’ love for reggae music, which she said is rooted in Jamaica stressing that African heritage abound in her home country and expressed optimism that the cultural exchange through foreign direct investment would build African heritage and promote tourism.
The High Commissioner noted that nations have the responsibility of acknowledging their past to help understand challenges which their forefathers went through and commended the State government for immortalising the missionaries who enlightened the society on acts of slavery and other barbaric practice stating that the feat is appreciated by the international community.