From Suleiman Abubakar
The community of Tungan Nufawa erupted in jubilation as Governor Abdullahi Sule declared his readiness to commence road construction, connecting the area with neighboring communities. Governor Sule made this announcement at the flag-off of the 2024 Fishing Festival, a groundbreaking event marking the first of its kind since the establishment of Nasarawa State in 1996.
"We are committed as a government to embark on the construction of this road project early next year," confirmed Governor Sule.
Furthermore, the construction of the road is expected to create numerous opportunities, increase the Internal Generated Revenue of the state, and provide job opportunities for the youth.
Governor Sule, in his remarks, assured that the state government would attract investors to develop the fisheries sub-sector. He emphasized the need for fishermen to stop using contaminated or poisonous devices in their fishing practices, stating that such actions would not be tolerated.
The Governor commended the festival committee for their outstanding work, which he said translated into the successful event witnessed by the people.
He also expressed appreciation to the Assakio Monarch, Osula Inarigu, and the Commissioner of Agriculture and Water Resources for their exemplary performance.
As part of the festivities, Governor Sule presented consolation prizes and awards to the best fishermen, including cash donations. The winners were Jibrin Ibrahim (third place), Tunga (second place), and Aliyu Abdul (first place).
Hon. Aminu Mua'zu Maifata, Chairman of Lafia Local Government, and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, praised the Governor for fulfilling his promise to revive fishing sites in Nasarawa State. He appealed to the Governor to address the challenges faced by the people and urged the community to support the administration of Engineer Abdullahi Sule.
Retired Justice Sidi Bage Muhammed, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, emphasized the importance of nurturing fishing as an occupation to reduce youth migration to other parts of the state.
Hon. Muhammed Bashir Umar, State Chairman of Fisheries Cooperative and Aquaculture, thanked Governor Abdullahi Sule for his support for fishermen and for ending the Fulani farmer skirmishes.
He described the event as historic and praised the Governor for elevating the dignity of the fisheries trade and improving its economic value.
Hon. Bashir Umar Mohammed highlighted some of the challenges faced by the association, including water pollution and outdated water laws. He expressed gratitude to the Governor for his moral and financial support towards the realization of projects that uplift fisheries activities and improve the lives of the citizens.
