Memorandum of Understanding signed between Lagos and Kebbi States on agricultural commodity value chain is in line with the agenda of the Federal Government to diversify the economy.

Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode who made this known, said the pact would go a long way in ensuring food security and job opportunities for the people.

Ambode, spoke during his official visit to the State as part of further steps to cement the agricultural partnership, saying he was totally committed to the success of the relationship as it would not only boost the economy of the two states but would increase Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.

He said the two states, with the agreement, which was the first state-to-state relations in the country, have shown leadership, and expressed optimism that other states would soon take a cue from the relationship.

The Governor, who was given a heroic reception from Birnin Kebbi International Airport down to the Government House, said the partnership was in continuation of the relationship which had always existed between the two states in term of politics, population and strength.

He said beyond collaboration on rice production, the Lagos State Government has also decided to create value chain on every other agricultural products from Kebbi State first to the people, which would in turn create jobs for the people and make the economy of Nigeria to become more vibrant thereby increasing the GDP.

On his part, Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu described the Memorandum of Understanding as an innovative partnership that would lead the way positively for Nigeria.

He said years of policy distortion had demoralize local producers of rice and other agricultural products from competing with their foreign counterparts, which had in turn affected the economy of Nigeria negatively, but expressed optimism that the partnership between Lagos and Kebbi States will right the wrongs of the past.

The Memorandum of Understanding principally centres on boosting the production of rice, wheat, ground nut, maize, millet, sorghum, sugar cane, cows, among others.

There is also arrangement with a Mexican firm, San Carlos Group to expand the Rice Mill at Imota in Lagos from production capacity of 2.5 metric tonnes per hour to 22.5 metric tonnes per hour with the active participation of the private sector.

Governor Ambode, as part of the official visit, also paid courtesy visits to the Emir of Gwandu, Mohammed Iliya Bashar and the Emir of Argungu, Samaila Meira.

He also inspected the Labana Rice Mill in Kebbi which has the production capacity of 16 metric tonnes per hour and the FADAMA Project Site I Argungu.