Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has received the Tunisian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mohsen Antit, along with a high-level delegation of government officials and business leaders, in an effort to enhance economic cooperation between Kano and Tunisia.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the visit aligns with the ongoing Tunisia-Nigeria Multi-Sectoral Economic Forum, which seeks to promote collaboration in key areas such as trade, agriculture, infrastructure, and culture.
During the reception at Government House, Kano, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed Kano’s position as a leading commercial hub in sub-Saharan Africa and emphasized the state’s dedication to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.
He described Tunisia’s engagement with Kano as a vital step toward strengthening bilateral trade, particularly in agriculture, where both regions possess vast investment opportunities.
The governor further disclosed plans for collaboration in garment manufacturing, dairy processing, and dyeing industries, leveraging Tunisia’s expertise and Kano’s industrial potential to boost economic growth.
To facilitate business-to-business engagements, Governor Yusuf directed the state’s Ministry of Investment, Commerce, and Industries, alongside the Ministry of Agriculture, to organize an exhibition showcasing Kano’s economic strengths to the Tunisian delegation.
Highlighting the strategic role of the Kano Dry Port in international trade, the governor announced that local businesses are preparing to import goods from Tunisia through the facility. He noted that this initiative would enhance cross-border trade and expand market access.
Governor Yusuf also expressed appreciation for Tunisia’s hospitality toward 17 Kano entrepreneurs who recently visited the country for business discussions.
In return, he assured that Kano would create a conducive environment for Tunisian investors looking to establish business operations in the state.
To further consolidate this partnership, the governor instructed the Managing Director of the Kano State Investment Promotion Agency (KAN-INVEST) to accompany the ambassador on a tour of key economic sites across the state.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mohsen Antit praised Kano’s economic potential and expressed gratitude for the warm reception given to his delegation.
He reaffirmed Tunisia’s commitment to strengthening long-term trade and investment partnerships with Kano and expressed optimism about the productive discussions held with business leaders and government agencies.
The visit concluded with both parties confident in a stronger Kano-Tunisia relationship, setting the stage for increased trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
This development further cements Kano’s status as a key economic player in regional and international markets.