Christian youth group cautions governor Uba Sani over MOU with Chinese firm

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

Apparently worried about seizure of Nigerian assets abroad by a Chinese firm, due to a business agreement with the Ogun State government signed in 2007, Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has called on the Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani to literally shine his eyes over a successfully signing of a Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) with a Chinese tech giant to advance the Smart City Project in Kaduna State.

Although the Christian group said the project was a significant milestone that promises to enhance the ICT sector and create opportunities for the youth in the State, the governor must avoid past mistakes from similar MOU with other State governments in the  country.

A statement by the Chairman, Northern Christian Youth Professionals, Isaac Abrak said, “However, we appeal to the governor’s team, especially those involved in the Huawei deal, to ensure that the project meets its objectives of enhancing the security of life and property, improving efficiency and transparency in public services, and attracting talent and investment to the state.

“We must also learn from similar past experiences involving international business dealings. A cautionary example is the ongoing seizure of Nigerian assets abroad by Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Limited, a Chinese firm, due to a business agreement with the Ogun State government signed in 2007.

“The contract, which involved the construction of a park and factory in the Ogun State Free Trade Zone, ended in a dispute that has now cost Nigeria $70 million in compensation. Despite the Ogun State government’s claims of foul play, the Chinese firm has already seized three jets and two residential properties belonging to Nigeria.

“These are important lessons for both federal and state governments. We must be vigilant to prevent similar situations that could damage Nigeria’s reputation and place undue financial burdens on our people.

“We believe that with careful planning, transparency, and accountability, the Smart City Project in Kaduna State can be a model for success and a source of pride for all Nigerians.

“While we celebrate this major achievement, we wish to call on the state government to ensure that this project is fully and effectively executed to benefit all the people of Kaduna State.

“We urge the government to avoid a repeat of past experiences, such as those under the previous administration led by Governor Nasir El-Rufai, which took a World Bank loan of $350 million for the development of basic education.

“Unfortunately, the purpose of this loan was not fulfilled as intended, and today, the people of Kaduna State are burdened with repaying a loan that did not yield the expected benefits.

“We are confident in the leadership of the current governor, Uba Sani whose policies and programs have demonstrated a genuine commitment to improving the living conditions of all residents of Kaduna State”