The Rwandan Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Christophe Bazivamo, expressed his country’s readiness to forge economic and educational ties with Ogun State, aiming for mutual benefits. Following a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta, Bazivamo highlighted Ogun State’s advancements in education and industrialization, underscoring the potential for Rwanda to glean insights from these achievements.
Bazivamo elaborated on his participation in a trade event organized by the state government, where he engaged with the governor and now seeks to exchange developmental strategies. Emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to South-South cooperation, Bazivamo praised Ogun State’s industrial and educational progress.
In particular, he highlighted the importance of industry development in a youthful population, noting its role in job creation and the stimulation of local economies through increased consumption of domestic products.
Looking ahead, Bazivamo outlined Rwanda’s aspirations to bolster its industries, providing opportunities for youth empowerment. He discussed plans to foster collaboration between Rwandan and Nigerian businesses, citing potential partnerships with the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture.
Bazivamo disclosed that Rwanda and Nigeria have already established a Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation, awaiting the finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize collaboration efforts.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of partnership within the African Continental Free Trade Area, emphasizing the need for mutual learning and innovation exchange. Bazivamo praised Ogun State’s local production initiatives and expressed a desire for Rwandan entrepreneurs to learn from them, potentially replicating successful models back home.