By Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
Borno Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has stepped in to increase the state’s internally generated revenue with the resuscitation of the largest hotel in the state, one other hotel and four other ailing companies.
The largest hotel in the state, Maiduguri International Hotel was consumed by fire about a decade ago, and much has not come in the way of getting it back on stream ever since.
It presently house the headquarters of Super Camp One, a detachment of the Operation Lafiya Dole, the military counter-insurgency operation in the North East.
The other hotel, Borno State Hotel inside the exquisite Maiduguri GRA, has been a relic of its old self and operating below optimal.
The four other companies on the shortlist of the governor include Borno Fertilizer Company Ltd, NIETAL Shoes and Ternary Factory, Borno Steel and Wire Industry and Borno Supply Company, all in the state capital, Maiduguri, have been running uncompetitively for more than a decade.
The governor with an eye at improving the state’s IGR on Tuesday began measures towards the resuscitation of all the six enterprises.
The governor went round the state capital to assess the institutions.
At the state hotel, Zulum directed the complete rehabilitation and face lift of the hotel, promise to begin repairs for others after technical evaluation.
The Governor, at the state owned fertilizer company located along Ngala road in Jere Local Government Area, directed the Ministry of Agriculture, which supervises the company to submit a detailed proposal of all the requirements needed for the company to resume work.
He however explained that considering the security situation, the company can only produce a blended fertilizer which was approved by the Federal Government.
He said: “I think the major problem of this fertilzer blending plant is negligence. These places could have been roofed. These are the areas we have problem in most of our industries. I think we cannot just invest. First and foremost, we have to do a feasibility study to determine its viability and profitability. We are aware of the sanction on the use of fertilizer in the Northeast, especially Urea fertilizer. However, recently the President has approved the usage of blended fertilizer. We will use this window to start operation here.”
Zulum also visited NIETAL Shoe and Ternery Factory, where he directed the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to invite qualified technical personnel to thoroughly assses the requirements for the resuscitation of the factory.
He said: “It has been long the Government of Borno State is making effort for the resuscitation of some of the industries. I have directed the Ministry of Commerce to immediately invite experts, especially those working here. I don’t mind calling those that have retired. Cross pollinate ideas and come up with a plan. You should detail among others, the fuctionality of some of the equipments on ground.” .
Zulum also gave similar directives when he visited the Borno Steel and Wiire Industry located in Umarari, along Baga road, Maiduguri.
The Governor also inspected facilities at Borno Supply Company (BOSCO), and interacted with the management staff on how the company can be reactivated to meet public demand.
The Governor also inspected an ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of BOSCO filling station along GRA Police Station.
The governor who was excited by the phase of work, assured the contractor of prompt release of funds whenever necessary.
He also reiterated the Government’s commitment to establish mega filling stations in the state capital.
“I am very impressed with your work. Despite the lockdown, you have made significant progress. We shall ensure timely release of funds to you. This is one of the mega stations we intend to put in place. While this is ongoing, we can start another one insha Allah.” Zulum said.