There are bright prospects of oil exploration and exploitation in Kebbi state after certifying the commercial viability of the natural resource, Governor Nasir Idris, has said.
He made this public in Birnin Kebbi at a reception to receive the newly appointed Kebbi indigene, retired Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Abubakar Mallam Shettima, as the Managing Director of the Rima River Basin Development Authority.
Comrade Idris informed the audience that every part of Kebbi has been endowed with mineral resources among which is petrol, assuring that the state is keen to enjoy the economic benefits of such natural endowment.
“I was in China recently during which Kebbi signed an agreement with that country on the processing of Lithium worth 200 million dollars.
“This particular project will afford indigenes of the state 45,000 job opportunities.
“Here in Nigeria, the government signed a separate agreement with another company of 300 million dollars on cement production in Kebbi.
“When operational, the venture will serve as an outlet for providing 75,000 jobs on top of the benefits of the end product,” Nasir said.
The governor affirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to the provision of free fertiliser, agricultural inputs, farming implements and improved seeds to farmers to increase their yields.
“Kebbi is adjudged the leading rice producer in Nigeria, which my administration will jealously sustain,” he said.