Anambra and Delta States are working on a comprehensive blueprint for strategic cooperation towards building a viable economic block in the country.
Governor Willie Obiano disclosed this after a closed door meeting withthe Delta State Governor, Senator IfeanyiOkowa and the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr Boboye Oyeyemi.
Governor Obiano revealed that it was agreed that the Commissioners for Economic Planning and Budget of both states meet regularly to discuss how the blueprint will be developed and to analyze economic situations in the country and advise both governments accordingly.
He further said discussions at the meeting also centered on how both states can partner to improve security in both states and reduce the heavy gridlock usually experienced around the Asaba end of the Niger Bridge especially during the yuletide.
Governor Obiano who assured that his government will continue to explore various levels of partnerships towards improving the welfare of Ndi Anambra, acknowledged that the positive economic implications of the partnership with Delta State is enormous and will definitely yield mutual dividends for both states.
The Delta State Governor, Senator Okowa who described deliberations during the meeting as fruitful, said the experience Governor Obiano has garnered in governance has become a valuable asset for the proposed partnership between the two states.
He commended the governor for hosting the Southeast Regional Security Summit with Delta, through which he noted, his state has gained a lot in the fight against crime and said they will sustain the partnership with the State in that regard.
For his part, the FRSC Corps Marshal, MrOyeyemi explained that part of measures agreed to address the heavy gridlock at the Niger Bridge was removal of police checkpoints and obstructions around the area and revealed that the Delta Government has promised to provide a heavy duty Tow Truck for the removal of indiscriminately parked vehicles during the festive Period.
While commending the two governors for the commitment they have shown towards the safety of road users,he assured that with their support, the Niger Bridge will be free from gridlock during the yuletide.