Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state has begun assessing six dormant
industries and international hostels for resuscitation to generate
more internal revenues.
According to him, the industries and hotels to be revived include
Fertilizer Blending Plant, NIETAL shoe factory, Steel and Wire
industry, Borno Supply Company, Maiduguri International Hotels and the
State Hotel.
He said that all the six dormant industries and hotels; are located in
Maiduguri metropolis, the state capital.
While speaking on economic viability of industries, he said: “As we
commenced their assessment for revivals, they will enhance State’s
Internally Generated Revenues (IGR).
At the State Hotel, he directed complete rehabilitation and face lift
of the hotel, while repairs for others are to commence after technical
evaluation.
Speaking at Maiduguri International Hotels along Damboa road, that
currently houses Headquarters of Nigerian Army Super Camp; Operation
Lafiya Dole, he said: “The burnt section of the hotel in 2011; is also
to be resuscitated after my assessment for public use to generate more
revenue.
He also directed the Commissioner of Agriculture, Alhaji Bukar Talba,
which supervises the Fertilizer Blending Plant to submit a detailed
proposal of all the requirements needed for the plant to resume
production of fertilizers.
He however noted that considering the security situation, the company
can only produce a blended fertilizer which was approved by the
Federal Government.
While lamenting neglect of government owned industries, he said: “I
think the major problem of this fertilizer blending plant is
negligence. Its destroyed structures could have been roofed,” noting
that these are areas most industries are facing to operate efficiently
and generate more revenues.
On reviving dormant industries, Zulum said: “I think we cannot just
invest. First and foremost, we have to do a feasibility study to
determine its viability and profitability.
“We are aware of the sanction on use of fertilizers in the Northeast,
especially Urea fertilizer.
“However, recently the President has approved the usage of blended
fertilizer. We will use this window to start operation here.”
He also directed the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to invite
qualified technicains to thoroughly assess the requirements for the
resuscitation of NIETAL shoe factory.
According to him; “I don’t mind calling those that have retired to
cross pollinate ideas and come up with an effective and efficient
plan,” warning that the ministry of commerce and industry should not
install factory equipment that do not function.
Zulum also directed the resuscitation of Borno Steel and Wire
Industry in Umarari community along Baga road, Maiduguri.
The Governor inspected facilities at Borno Supply Company (BOSCO), and
interacted with the management staff on how the company could be
revived to meet public demands for petroleum and household products.
He also inspected ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of BOSCO
filling station near Government Reservation Area (GRA) police station.
Excited with pace of work, he assured the contractor of prompt release
of funds to complete the fuel mega station.
He also reiterated state government’s commitment to the completion of
mega fuel stations in Maiduguri metropolis, the state capital.
While speaking at ongoing mega fuel station project, he said: “I am
very impressed with your work. Despite the lock down, you have made
significant progress.
“We shall ensure timely release of funds to you. This is one of the
mega fuel stations we intend to complete this year for motorists.
“While this fuel project is ongoing, we can start another one by God’s grace.”
