Italy ready to invest in Kaduna, says envoy

Lacopo Foti, the ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, says his country is ready to collaborate with Kaduna manufacturing and technology, pledging to support investments from Italian companies in the state.

Foti spoke during a courtesy visit to Hadiza Balarabe, Kaduna’s deputy governor, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Saturday.

The envoy also highlighted Italy’s willingness to collaborate with the state government.

“We have come to introduce ourselves, learn about the government’s plans, and see if there are investments which you want the Italian Embassy to facilitate,” Foti was quoted as saying in a statement.

“If there are private investments you desire in Kaduna, especially in machinery or manufacturing, or if you have plans for the next few years, let us know. If you’re interested in agricultural machinery companies like tractor plants, we can make contact with them.”

The ambassador also encouraged the state government to approach the Italian embassy for partnerships.

“We are ready to collaborate in manufacturing, technology and other areas,” he added.

Foti expressed optimism that in the coming months, Italy and Kaduna would collaborate on agriculture, education, and training — pending proposals from the state regarding their interests to present to the Italian government.

He said Italian investors would find Kaduna’s climate more favourable than Abuja’s, noting that the state is also people-friendly.

“We have Italians living here; this visit is an opportunity to meet them and see how we can help them and the State Government,” the envoy noted.

In response, Balarabe acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Italy and Nigeria, expressing interest in strengthening economic ties.

She highlighted Kaduna’s advantages in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, energy, technology, and human capital development, noting that the state is the largest producer of maize, tomatoes, and ginger in Nigeria.

“Italy excels in manufacturing, technology, education, and renewable energy. I hope we can establish collaboration in these areas,” the deputy governor said.

Balarabe, who directed the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA) to prepare a proposal for the Italian embassy, also expressed hope that the ambassador’s visit would initiate substantial discussions between the state and Italy.

She said Kaduna looks forward to further engagement with the ambassador, expressing hope that it would not be his last visit to the state.