John Ighodaro
12 January 2009
The Emir of Borgu Kingdom, Niger State, Dr. Haliru Dantoro, Kitoro III (CON) has called on Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State to operate an all-inclusive government that would join forces with the opposition in the development of the state.
He spoke when he paid a courtesy call on Governor Imoke at Government House in Calabar.
The Emir, a former Minister of the Federal Capital during President Shehu Shagari's regime, said he first visited Cross River State during the regime of late Dr. Clement Isong.
While commending Imoke for the tremendous development that has taken place in the State, he described Cross River as not only the cleanest state but added that, "Its people are very friendly which has encouraged other nationals of Nigeria to live and undertake various endeavours."
He reasoned that Nigerians should dedicate their resources and intellect for the development of the country, advising that geo-political zones should solidify rather than separate the country because God has blessed Nigeria.
The Emir noted the need for people to use their talents for the upliftment of the society as the greatest challenge is to impact on the lives of the people, adding that leaders have the responsibility to make life more meaningful for the future generation.
While receiving the Emir, Governor Liyel Imoke said his government was determined to harness the natural resources of the state to become one of the fastest growing economies in the country.
He disclosed that Cross River has numerous natural resources, favourable weather and fertile land which it has as comparative advantage over other States.
He reiterated the state's focus on Tourism and Agriculture "and in few years, its economy will be robust as it is not built on the benefits of oil."
The Governor, who described the visit as a demonstration of unity, said leaders must interpret service to impact positively on the economy of the people rather than abusing the privilege to serve, stating that he and his guest have a longstanding relationship which started when both were members of the Senate.
He congratulated the Emir for accepting to serve his people traditionally rather than veer into another field of endeavour and that his visit was a clear demonstration of the goodwill that exists between both of them as they believe in a common destiny.
The governor was of the opinion that if more people of the Emir's calibre held influential positions in Nigeria, the country would have been a better place to live in, describing his visitor as "a nation builder, building on the efforts of past nationalists."
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