The Federal Government has assured of its commitment to consolidate its relationship with the Canadian Government to foster bilateral ties for mutual economic benefits in agricultural development.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, who disclosed this while receiving the audience of the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Dr. Jamie Christoff and Canadian Political Attache to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Murphy in his office, said Nigeria and Canada share a lot in common with regards to the system of government practiced by the two countries.
He noted that both countries practice the Federal System of Government, explaining that the local government, representing the third tier, is designed to cater for the developmental needs at the grassroot level.
While stressing that no federal system is the same because of country differences, the SGF said, “if well structured the federal system of government is the best.”
Akume, who stressed that the current economic hardship in the country was inherited, assured that it will only be temporary as the government has come up with economic policies which include streamlining the multiple foreign exchange window, multiple taxation regime and the removal of the fuel subsidy.
He said all these policies will help alleviate hardship and bring succor to the people.
READ ALSO: FG calls for strategy overhaul to combat malaria scourge
Akume while appreciating the envoy, recalled that in 2022 Nigeria was Canada’s largest bilateral trade partner in Africa, with Canadian imports from Nigeria totalling about $1.7billion mainly on mineral fuels, oils and cocoa.
The Canadian High Commissioner, expressing confidence in Nigeria said, “I am a great believer in Nigeria and Nigeria is a great country. We share a lot in common as we also practice a Federal System of Government.”
He however noted that while the system can be designed to suit different levels, some form of coordination is sacrosanct in order not to deviate from the original plan of the system of government.
Christoff equally emphasized that Nigeria and Canada are large producers of grains and for this reason a lot could be done together to achieve a viable economic development that is mutually beneficial.
He assured of a stronger agricultural cooperation between the countries that will bring further prosperity, and the country’s commitment to support Nigeria.
