Date: 2016-10-17

Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed on Sunday travelled to the United States to join 18 other northern state governors invited by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) for the Northern Nigeria Governors' Symposium.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the governor, Dr. Muyideen Akorede, the symposium will hold in Washington DC between October 18 and 21.

The Statement noted that the symposium is designed to address causes of instability in the north and seek opportunities for durable peace and economic development of the region.

ALSO READ Nigeria Ratifies Agreements With UK, Niger To Stem Terrorism It added that the governors will also meet with officials of the U.S government, public agencies and business leaders to discuss Nigeria's development and project priorities for Northern Nigeria.

Governor Ahmed is expected to take advantage of his participation in the symposium to seek investments and partnerships targeted at promoting the growth and development of Kwara State as well as issues surrounding inclusive governance.

A Senior Advisor at USIP, Mr. Johnnie Carson said that boosting economic growth with alternatives such as agriculture to make up for the declining oil revenues will be among discussions at the symposium.

In an article published on USIP website, Mr. Carson added that the symposium will provide an opportunity for sharing of experience and open new thinking and ideas. ALSO READ Peterside meets lawyers, promises independent judiciary After the event, the governors are expected to coordinate with a Senior Working Group of Nigerian civic, business and other leaders to assist with implementing ideas coming out of the symposium.