By Charles Iteshi
Abakaliki,
Federal House of Representatives member for Ikwo/Ezza South Constituency, Rt. Hon. (Comrade) Chinedu Ogah, OON, today paid a courtesy visit to the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Abuja, where he met with Norway’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Svein Baera.
During the meeting, Ogah expressed gratitude for Norway’s impactful contributions to Ikwo Local Government Area and Ebonyi State through the Norwegian Refugee Council’s Global Provider of Expertise (NORCAP). NORCAP, operated by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and funded by the Norwegian government, has supported humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding initiatives in the region.
The lawmaker praised the outcomes of these initiatives and advocated for renewed collaboration to tackle emerging challenges and promote further development in Ebonyi State.
“I am here to show my gratitude to you and renew the relationship established with my Ikwo people in the year 1962 which was sponsored by NORCAP and attracted scholarships to Ikwo sons and daughters”
“I appeal to the Norwegian Embassy for partnership and relocation to Ebonyi State for more development and progressive projects that would impact the life of Ebonyi people”
Ogah also commended the governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for his progressive administration. He highlighted factors such as improved security, favorable climate, and low taxation policies as reasons the Norwegian Embassy should consider strengthening its partnership with Ebonyi.
In response, Ambassador Svein Baera expressed interest in Ogah’s proposal, acknowledging the historical ties between Norway and Ikwo. He promised to consult his team and make the necessary arrangements to visit Ebonyi State before formalizing the partnership.
The lawmaker was accompanied by a delegation that included Hon. Sunday Okeh of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Engr. Sampson Ojon of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, and Barr. Chijioke Ogboji, among others.