Akwa Ibom State government has indicated interest to partner with the United States of America in strategic development particularly in the areas of economy, health, education, technology and capacity building.
Governor Emmanuel gave the indication when the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr William Stuart Symington called on him at the Government House, Uyo.
He said that Akwa Ibom State is ready for strategic partnership with developed countries to fast track development, having put in place reliable infrastructure, security, transparent legislation in addition to its abundant resources that could be exploited for sustainable economic growth.
“I am excited that Akwa Ibom, the only state in the world named after God, is today hosting a delegation from God’s own country.”
The similarity in identity, in the opinion of the Governor should encourage the United States government to embark on Socio economic projects that would impact generations.
Mr Emmanuel who recounted how the United States had assisted to transform some villages in other developing economies, into global focus invited America to partner with the state to attract global attention.
“You can pick Akwa Ibom, not as a village, because it is already assuming a city status, and turn it into a global focus.”
He reiterated the desire of his administration to explore other ways of developing the economy beyond the oil, especially with the dwindling fortunes of crude oil in the global market.
“America is no longer buying oil from Nigeria because it has invented shell oil and it is important your country assist our state in the area of technology transfer.”
Emmanuel who described the Ambassador’s visit to one of the strategic States in the Niger Delta as a welcome development noted that, “we are thrilled by the visit of the ambassador. He came here to learn from us and from me as his brother while we also learn from his experience.”