The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II has advised Kano state
government to pay more attention to the sector of education saying a
knowledge based economy is the key to development.
“Education holds the key to our development. We must continue to give
priority attention to the sector because it is the bedrock of any
development,” he said.
He made the call in a keynote address at the opening of two-day
conference, which is part of week-long activities organized by the state
government to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state.
The Emir further advised the government to prioritize girl-child education
because it has great potential to fast track social change and accelerate
development.
Emir Sanusi advised the state to exploit areas where it has comparative
advantage, stressing that for Kano to remain competitive, it must improve
agriculture using private sector driven initiatives, as well as revitalize
the power sector.
“Fixing power and agriculture are critical components of any initiative
aimed at bringing development to Kano state”, the traditional ruler
emphasized.
“We must be ready to change our way of thinking; if we must be able to
face the challenges and ensure economic growth and development of the
state.” he added.
In his remarks, Gov. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje said: “As our dear State turns
fifty, we have arrived at the moment in history when we are left with no
option but to channel our thought and action towards attaining the desired
growth and development”.
“To avail the youth the opportunity to grasp our historical development
and refresh the minds of the older generation among us, papers presented
at this Conference are expected to analyze the history, socio-political
and economic trends as defined by the administrative modalities in the
past 50 years”, the governor added.
According to Gov. Ganduje, “this approach and the effect of globalization,
ICT etc would enable Kano key into developmental trends including the
various scientific options available to meet the current challenges”.
To re-launch Kano to greatness, he restated commitment to adhere to the
principle of continuity, consolidation, fine-tuning and introduction of
new projects, pointing out that although the task is enormous, his
administration is determined to change the economic landscape of the state
with the lean resources available coupled with cooperation from all
development partners.