The Northern Christian Youth Professionals have praised the Kaduna State Governor for signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese tech giant Huawei to advance the Smart City Project in Kaduna State. The group lauded the initiative as a significant milestone that could boost the ICT sector and create opportunities for youth in the North West region.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak, the group expressed optimism about the project but urged the state government to ensure its full and effective execution for the benefit of all Kaduna residents. The statement also highlighted past setbacks, referencing a $350 million World Bank loan under the previous administration of Governor Nasir El-Rufai for basic education, which reportedly did not achieve its intended outcomes, leaving the state burdened with debt.
“We are confident in the leadership of the current governor, whose policies have shown a genuine commitment to improving living conditions in Kaduna State,” the statement read. However, it called on those involved in the Huawei deal to ensure the project achieves its goals of enhancing security, improving public service efficiency, and attracting investment.
The group also cautioned against potential pitfalls in international business dealings, citing the ongoing legal and financial disputes involving Nigerian assets and Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Limited, a Chinese firm, over a 2007 agreement with the Ogun State government.
“These are important lessons for both federal and state governments. We must be vigilant to prevent similar situations that could damage Nigeria’s reputation and place undue financial burdens on our people,” the statement concluded, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability to make the Kaduna Smart City Project a model of success.
