The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Lacopo Foti, has expressed Italy’s willingness to support Kaduna State’s investment initiatives by encouraging Italian businesses to explore opportunities in the region.
Ambassador Foti made this commitment during a courtesy visit to Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Saturday.
“We’re here to introduce ourselves, understand the government’s vision, and identify potential areas where the Italian Embassy can facilitate investments,” Foti said. “If there are specific sectors—such as machinery or manufacturing—where you’re seeking private investment, particularly in areas like agricultural equipment or tractor production, let us know and we can connect you with the right companies.”
He encouraged the state to reach out to the embassy for support, noting Italy’s readiness to collaborate in fields like manufacturing, technology, and more.
Foti expressed optimism that the discussions held during the visit, which included potential partnerships in agriculture, education, and vocational training, would lead to tangible outcomes. “We are looking forward to receiving proposals from Kaduna State that we can present to the Italian Government,” he said.
He also praised Kaduna’s environment, saying it offers a slightly better climate than Abuja and is home to friendly people. “This is my first visit to Kaduna, but I plan to return next month,” he added. He mentioned that there is already a small Italian community in Kaduna and that the visit provided an opportunity to support both them and the state.
Deputy Governor Balarabe welcomed the ambassador’s visit and highlighted the long-standing relationship between Italy and Nigeria. She emphasized Kaduna State’s strengths in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, energy, technology, and human capital, noting that the state leads Nigeria in the production of maize, tomatoes, and ginger.
Balarabe instructed the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA) to draft a proposal for the Italian Embassy and expressed hope that the ambassador’s visit would mark the beginning of a productive partnership between Kaduna and Italy.
She concluded by affirming the state’s interest in further engagement with Ambassador Foti and the Italian government.