BENIN CITY: Edo State Governor Mr. Godwin Obaseki disclose that the greates challenge facing Nigeria as a nation is that of waste, saying that there is so much waste in this country and the time to think about the country and how to reduce corruption and waste is now.

He made the disclosure while declaring open the Chevron 4th Triennial Branch Delegate Conference with the theme: “The role of Trade Union in a Challenging Economy”, held in Precious Palm Royal Hotel in Benin City yesterday.

Obaseki said the waste whether in the form of corruption or the way we address our work attitude simply shows that there is so much waste in the system.”It is time to think about our country and how to reduce corruption and waste. Our problem is not having enough but we mismanage so much of what we have”.

“Transferring technology and building local know how and the ownership of local oil industry should now be part of your interest, leading Nigeria to a more prosperous economy beyond oil should be your interest. The language of the struggle must therefore now change from you against us, but for us working together to make Nigeria a top economy in the world”.

The governor said the common enemy of Nigeria is poverty, hunger and want. He called on Nigerians to be united in fighting for the sole of the nation. “As you search for the solution of this conference, remember that to save and salvage Nigeria is a task for us all. As you search for ways to diversify the economy of our country and bring eco-friendly and raw investment into the oil and gas Industry, be reminded that Edo State is ready to do business”.

Obaseki said the goal of his administration is to create a state that has the best and friendly environment for doing business in Nigeria. “Our plan is to partner with you in your industry to utilize the huge gas reserve in our state to electrify and industrialize Nigeria. We are willing to support your idea from this conference and to partner with you in providing jobs growing our local and national economy”.

Obaseki assured the participants that when next they visit the state within the next 12 months they will see remarkable difference in the city as it will be more beautiful than it is today. He said the assurance is based on the commitment of his administration to improve the lives of the people of the state, to improve the infrastructure, create jobs and ensure that there is security in the state, as this will ensure the people live in happiness.