Yero Wants British Intervention On Terrorism

Kaduna State governor, Alhaji Muhktar Ramalan Yero, has sought the assistance of the British Government in tackling insecurity and other anti-development challenges facing the State.

The governor made a plea for assistance in Kaduna, while playing host to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Andrew Pocock at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House.

Governor Yero, who commended the intervention of the British Government in other areas of concerns in the State, particularly through its Department for International Development (DFID), argued that British intervention has assisted in supporting the state realise some of its human development and growth objectives.

He said the DIFD launched five interventions recently 'prominent among which is the Women for Women programme targeted at training female health workers.'

Yero, however, assured of his administration's commitment to ensuring security of lives and property through short and long-term measures.

He said his administration had created a business environment that could attract investors and other development partners to the State.

Meanwhile, the British Commission, in a press statement, said over 170'000 people travel from Nigeria to the United Kingdom for different purposes yearly. It pledges to continue welcoming genuine immigrants with openness.

'Most of those travelling have a great time and their visits are safe and successful.  The UK is open to genuine visitors, students and business people who benefit from the first class visa service we offer,' it said.

It, however, noted that some visa applicants try to circumvent the rules to travel illegally.  It warned that such applicants, if detected, would face 10-year ban.

The statement continued: 'We have strict controls in place to detect fraud.  These include sophisticated document verification and biometrics.  It is important that you fill in applications as honestly as possible.  If you don't, the consequences can be very serious.'