Vice President Arc Mohammed Sambo has expressed the nation’s desire for added support that would improve her security situation.
He made this known when he hosted the Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Saeed, Koorechi in his office at the State House, Abuja. The Vice President who is billed to represent President Goodluck Jonathan at the 16th Summit of the Non-Aligned Nations in Tehran used the occasion to outline the areas of added support and cooperation Nigeria needs from Iran. They include power, transportation, agriculture, science education, oil & gas exploration, fertilizer production, health care delivery and security.
Arc. Sambo said that Nigeria is looking forward to the Summit and expressed her desire to add value to the success of the organization to attain lofty heights in championing universal freedom of humanity and improving the socio-economic conditions of member nations.
The Vice President said Nigeria was working towards ensuring that outstanding issues as regards the formation of joint commissions are actualized. He stated that Nigeria was patronizing made in Iran power components that are being used in the National Independent Power Projects (NIPP) on its 10 new thermal power plants currently being constructed. Arc Sambo used the occasion to state that about 40 percent of the plants are currently adding power to the national grid.
Earlier, the Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria Saeed, Koorechi was elated that Nigeria would not only be participating but would be represented by a high level delegation. He said the Summit is billed to host members that consist of 55% population of the world and 20% of the world’s economies. He stated that of the over 100 countries that indicated interest to participate, over 50 of them will participate at the level of Presidents’, Prime Ministers and Vice Presidents. He therefore called on Nigeria to take advantage offered by the Summit as the country enjoys large potentials which should be untilized for its benefit.
The Ambassador noted that Iran was self sufficient and export power and oil to neighboring countries while it is able to meet 95% of its pharmaceutical demands to 75 million people. He further stated that Iranian companies have contacted their Nigerian counterparts for mutual cooperation while noting that Iran is ready to cooperate with Nigeria to combat insecurity. Iran spiritual leader, Ayatollah Khameini is expected to inaugurate the conference.
