NAN-H-98
Budget
By EricJames Ochigbo
Abuja, Feb. 20, 2017 (NAN) Aliyu Pategi, the APC member representing Edu/Moro/Patigi Federal Constituency of Kwara State, says increased budgetary allocation to the water resources sector can stimulate the economic diversification policy of the Federal Government.
Pategi, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Water Resources, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday.
He acknowledged the improved allocation to the sector in the 2017 budget, but stressed the need for additional investment.
Cue in audio 1 (Pategi)
“It’s a big improvement from last year’s allocation.
“For capital project, last year, we had about N40 billion and this year we have that doubling to about N80 billion to cover the 12 River Basin Authorities, the four agencies of the water resources and the main ministry itself.’’
Cue out audio 1
Pategi said the success of the diversification policy of the government and the ongoing efforts to move the country out of recession were largely dependent on a vibrant water resources sector.
He, therefore, called for more investment in the industry
Cue in audio 2 (Pategi)
“Going forward, we need more.
“You are aware that the present policy of diversifying the economy, moving us out recession have to do with a lot of the assets of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
“Dams – Nigerian dams, multi-purpose dams – are the ones that provide the water for irrigation.
“And without water you cannot grow food, you can’t take us out of the poverty cycle and ensure that there is food security for the population.’’
Cue out audio 2 (NAN)
EOO/LAB/YEE
Edited by Lydia Beshel/Emmanuel Yashim
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