The governor stated this while addressing indigenes of the state under the auspices of Kwara State Association of Nigeria, in North America, Washington DC.

The North America Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group was celebrating its 6th National Convention with representatives of its UK chapter in attendance.

Ahmed said that the government had commenced the repair of vital infrastructure such as roads throughout the state to fast track development and growth.

He also informed the residents that the state had brought an end a situation where parents send their children abroad in pursuit of quality education as a result of lack of infrastructure.

According to him, the opportunity of continuity in governance in the state had made it possible for him to build on the foundation laid by the former governor, Dr. Bukola Saraki.

``The current administration in Kwara State has refused to break-off from the past government in the state and so continues to pride itself as 'a government of continuity,'' Ahmed said.

He said that the government's investments in infrastructure, plans to cluster cooperatives along value chain, educational reform and upgrades had set the state on the path of progress.

The governor said the state had also focussed on agriculture with the aim of increasing cultivable land, improving farmers' access to input and mechanising agricultural practices.

The target, he added was to ensure the re-engineering of farming practices and reorientation of farmers for higher production.

``This will promote direct farming and cooperative interventions and improve business environment to encourage partnerships through FDI and knowledge transfer,'' he said.

Ahmed added that agriculture occupied a priority position in Nigeria, as the sector serves as the key driver of growth, wealth creation and poverty reduction for a large portion of the population.

According to him, more than 80 per cent of Nigeria's agricultural production was dominated by poor and small-scale producers in the rural areas, but said the group lacked access to capital necessary to increase output and income.

Ahmed also said that the state had signed a MoU with College of Agriculture and Life Sciences of Cornell University, New York on its Agricultural Modernisation Master Plan.

The governor commended the residents for organising the forum, urging them not to hesitate in their contribution to the development of the state.

Earlier some of the residents had expressed willingness to relocate to the state and contribute to its development.

The National President of the association, Chief Lateef Amolegbe commended the governor for uplifting of the state and pledged the support of the association.

NAN reports that Kwara State Students in Diaspora presented an award to the governor for his inspirational performance. (NAN)