The Oyo State Government on Thursday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the French Government.
The MoUs included a concessionaire loan of €55 million for the state health programme, and the promotion of French Language in its educational system.
The event was held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Governor Seyi Makinde led the state top government functionaries to sign the two MoUs, while the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs Emmanuelle Blatmann, led the French delegation.
In his remarks, Makinde said the loan with 0.0009% interest was specifically to be used for the upgrading of all the General Hospitals across the geopolitical zones in the state.
He explained that the second MoU would enhance the promotion and teaching of French language in the state schools.
Makinde noted that the French language is a major language of international relation, expressing optimism that it would boost commerce and development.
The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Oyewo Oyelowo, had earlier explained that the refurbishment of the general hospitals across the state is being executed under the new healthcare initiative of the Makinde-led administration.
Oyelowo said the loan with a very low interest rate would be paid in 40 years.
He said the second MoU was worthwhile, noting that it would pave the way for the learning of French Language in the state schools and among the citizens.
Also, the French Ambassador, Blatmann, said the loan, extended to an African country in 30 years, would engender healthcare, qualitative education and globalisation of the state. (NAN)
The loan with a 0.0009% interest is specifically to be used for the upgrading of all the General Hospitals across the geopolitical zones in the state.
