Buhari assures investors on diversification drive, warns saboteurs
President Muhammadu Buhari says his government will continue to welcome support and investments from the international community in the agricultural and solid minerals sectors as Nigeria moves to reduce dependence on crude oil.
A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, quoted the president as saying at a farewell audience with the outgoing ambassador of the Republic of Sweden to Nigeria, Mr. Svante Kilander at the State House in Abuja yesterday that his administration would create the enabling environment for local and foreign investments in farming, animal husbandry, fishery and the exploration of solid minerals.
He said a planned visit by some Swedish trade and investment delegations to Nigeria later in the year would further encourage the ongoing process of diversifying the Nigerian economy.
He commended the Swedish government for the support extended to Nigeria in catering for the needs of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the northeast and the ongoing reconstruction of the areas affected by terrorist attacks.
Kilander said his country was pleased with the sweeping changes taking place across Nigeria with clear results in the fight against terrorism and corruption and assured that his country would continue to strengthen bilateral relations with Nigeria by encouraging more trade and investments between both nations.
In another development, the president has warned that whoever tries to deter him from fighting corruption would suffer the consequences.
He spoke at the Presidential Villa yesterday while breaking Ramadan fast with internally displaced persons, the physically challenged, taxi drivers, commercial motorcycle riders and artisans.
The president said he knew how to deal with those opposing his anti-corruption war.
Buhari, who spoke in English and Hausa, observed that the elite was selfcentred.
"We're committed to tackling corruption in this country, but whoever tries to deter us from fighting corruption will suffer the consequences. It's unfortunate that the elite are self-centred and they only think about themselves," he said.
President Buhari blamed the nation's current socioeconomic malaise on the mismanagement of resources by the administration of his predecessor, Dr Goodluck Jonathan.
"Be assured that we care about you at all times. This government is concerned about your welfare and we will work hard to improve it," he assured.
An internally displaced person, Musbau Diti, who spoke on behalf of others, urged Buhari to alleviate the sufferings of the IDPs in the various camps across Nigeria.
He also appealed for the establishment of a commission for persons with disabilities.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal and FCT Minister Mohammed Musa Bello were present at the dinner.