The Emir Of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III says President Muhammadu Buhari sees Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as a dependable deputy because of the various economic reforms the professor or law has spearheaded in this country within the last six years.

The monarch spoke on Tuesday when the vice-president paid courtesy call on him at his palatial palace in Gombe.

Speaking with Osinbajo, the Emir said, “Your visit today affirms the commitment of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, and the support that you give our people.”

The monarch further said, “I would like to commend the Federal Government for its compelling efforts towards the economic development of our people especially in the area of agriculture and small-scale businesses. Gombe is an agrarian State and also a hub of trade and commerce in the Northeast.

“I believe what you see today will avail you the opportunity to see firsthand, the impact and nature of our people and the numerous successes of our businesses.

“We are on board with the National Livestock Transformation Plan which you chair.

“Your presence here today is in line with your role as the ‘economic driver’ of the country. Through your role as the Chairman of the National Economic Council, you have spearheaded important reforms in the area of ease of doing business, enhancing ICT innovation, as well as economic policies to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This demonstrates your own role in the Buhari administration and a lot of confidence that Mr. President reports on you.

“We in the North are closely following your steady achievements; first as a successful legal professor, a religious leader and now as the Vice President of Nigeria.

“We are studying your humility and grace; we appreciate you and we pray for more success in your journey.

“I feel particularly honoured by your visit to us and to Gombe for the MSME clinic. This demonstrates your respect for the traditional institution and the strong bond of friendship between yourself and the good people of Gombe.”

Responding, Osinbajo said, “I am here on account of hospitality and kindness of His Royal Highness, Alh. Dr. Abubakar Sheuhu Abubakar III it is really a special pleasure, first to pay tribute to you, and to say a warm greeting of the President, Muhammadu Buhari who hold this state very dearly to thank you for very warm reception, and invitation of my dear brother (and governor) of Gombe state to hold what we call the MSME clinic, this is a federal government project to bring in the regulatory authorities such as NAFDAC, CAC, BOI and other regulatory agencies with states such as this so that small business men and women can meet with them and tell them their problems are and they hopefully are able to resolve them for them.”