…From Dele Ogunyemi, Ibadan…
France has pledged its readiness to assist the Oyo State Government in the provision of credit to small scale enterprises through its micro-finance programme as well as teaching of French language in schools in the state.
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jacques Champaigne De Labriolle made the pledge on behalf of his country when he paid a courtesy call on the state Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi in his office in Ibadan at the week end.
The ambassador also said that his country would offer assistance in the areas of health care delivery and agriculture, all of which he said would bring about economic prosperity and stability to the state.
Mr. Labriolle commended the Ajimobi administration’s efforts at ensuring an all-round development of the state through its various programmes and policies, particularly in the areas of urban renewal, environmental sanitation and massive infrastructural development.
Responding, Governor Ajimobi thanked France for playing major roles in the security of many countries including Nigeria, stressing that his administration would continue to accord priority to security of lives and property of the citizens of the state.
According to the governor, no nation can achieve meaningful development without adequate security, hence the need to ensure the provision of adequate security at all times.
He also acknowledged the support and assistance of France in the water system development programme of the state, adding that his administration would further appreciate the country’s contribution to the rehabilitation of water equipment to enhance regular supply of potable water to the people of the state.
Governor Ajimobi called for partnership with France in his government’s micro-finance programme which, he said, would boost trading, agriculture and other socio-economic activities in the state.
He also said that his administration had concluded plans to designate some schools for the teaching and learning of French language in the state.