Zulum seeks W’Bank support on rehabilitation

The Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called for expanded collaboration with the World Bank to accelerate the state’s post-conflict recovery efforts.

Governor Zulum made the call on Friday during a meeting with the newly appointed Country Director of the World Bank, Dr. Ndiame Diop in Abuja.

The governor emphasised the importance of the World Bank’s ongoing assistance in critical areas, including education, agriculture, health, and livestock development.

He said, “I want to welcome you to Nigeria and wish you success in your new assignment.

 “Borno State has a strong collaborative relationship with the World Bank. My administration is investing heavily in healthcare, education, and agriculture—sectors that are pivotal to our recovery strategy.”

Zulum highlighted the significant impact of the Bank’s Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project in Borno, which has enabled the execution of numerous life-saving and transformative projects across the state.

While responding, Dr. Ndiame Diop pledged the World Bank’s ongoing partnership with Borno State in the areas of education, healthcare, agriculture, and livestock.

He commended the state’s performance in implementing MCRP projects, noting that the state is the best state in project execution within Nigeria.

Dr. Diop expressed his commitment to strengthening this partnership by personally visiting the state.

“Borno is leading in the implementation of MCRP projects across Nigeria,” Diop stated.

 “The World Bank will support efforts to reduce the malaria burden and strengthen the livestock sector. Notably, Borno State contributes 50 per cent of the livestock in the North-East, with the sector generating approximately three trillion naira nationwide, 40 per cent of which comes from the North-East region.”

The World Bank boss further noted that as peace returns to Borno, the World Bank aims to support additional development initiatives to bolster the state’s economy and improve livelihoods for its citizens.