We Are Learning With Hardship In Nigeria-Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja said the Federal Government is
working assiduously to ameliorate the challenges faced by the Nigerian
economy within a short period by understudying the experiences of
countries like Iran who thrived in adversity.

Receiving a Special Envoy from the President of Islamic Republic of Iran
at the State House, Mohammad Javad Zarif, President Buhari said the
Iranian economy remains an inspiration for Nigeria in the deployment of
technology to harness and export gas, grow food for the populace and
promote entrepreneurship in education.

``The progress made by Iran within a short period of 30 years is really
commendable. Within the period, you have been able to harness gas flaring,
and you are now exporting. You have recorded strides in security,
manufacturing, agriculture and technology.

``You have also achieved a lot in nuclear research. I must also
congratulate you for successfully negotiating with America and the
European countries on the development of your nuclear energy,’’ he said.

The President noted that Nigeria had all the potentials for growing into a
great economy through more inclusive planning, consistency in government
policies and commitment to the realization of development targets.

``In Nigeria, we are learning. We are learning the hard way through
hardship, and we are learning very quickly on how to explore other sectors
of the economy like gas, solid minerals and agriculture for growth.

``We are grateful for your support and cooperation in opening up the
Nigerian economy for diversification,’’ President Buhari told the envoy.

In his remark, the Iranian envoy, who is also the Minister of Foreign
Affairs, said the Iranian government would support the ongoing
restructuring of the Nigerian economy.

``We are very keen to see a better and stronger relationship with Nigeria,
which is the largest country in Africa and a major global player,’’ he
said.

Zarif said he came into Nigeria with a delegation of more than 70 members
of the Iranian business community who had already started discussions in
investing in sectors like banking, education, scholarship, agriculture,
energy, tourism and technology development.