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Minister Uche Nnaji Urges Nigerians to Embrace Local Goods for Economic Growth
Recently, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, called on Nigerians to embrace and prioritize locally-made goods.
According to him, Nigerian-made products not only meet high-quality standards but also play a critical role in strengthening the nation’s economy.
He pointed this out at the opening of a specialized training program in Abuja aimed at empowering youth and women through hands-on skills in various sectors.
The training, organized by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), equips young Nigerians and women with practical knowledge in fields.
This field consists of cassava and potato bread production, mushroom farming, cosmetics manufacturing, date syrup production, and converting diesel generators to compressed natural gas (CNG).
Simply, this initiative is part of a broader effort to create jobs, reduce poverty, and encourage entrepreneurship by transforming scientific research into practical, market-ready products.
In addition, Chief Nnaji emphasized that this initiative is closely aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, which includes combatting poverty, fostering economic growth, and creating jobs.
By promoting science, technology, and innovation (STI), the ministry aims to transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
“Our commitment to advancing Nigeria’s technological and industrial capacity is unwavering,” Nnaji stated, underscoring the ministry’s role in fostering an ecosystem that moves the country closer to economic self-sufficiency and industrial power.
Additionally, he explained that translating research and development (R&D) into commercially viable products is essential for Nigeria’s long-term growth and economic stability.
“This program is a step towards bridging the gap between research and the market, enabling us to generate foreign exchange and create sustainable job opportunities.
By focusing on commercialization, we are not only strengthening the naira but also working to diversify Nigeria’s economic base,” he noted.
Programs like this, he explained, support the growth of small businesses by providing individuals with the skills to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to national development.
FIIRO, which has been a prominent institution in Nigeria’s research sector since its founding, plays a vital role in developing and promoting technologies suited to Nigeria’s needs.
Through its ongoing work, FIIRO helps to address local challenges by leveraging Nigeria’s abundant raw materials and fostering skills that drive innovation in diverse industries.
Chief Nnaji acknowledged the institute’s efforts in supporting young Nigerians and women, who, with the right training, are empowered to establish their businesses and create jobs within their communities.
As part of its strategic vision, the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has established partnerships through various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), utilizing Nigeria’s local resources and labour force.
These collaborations aim to drive innovation across the country’s geopolitical zones by working closely with regional agencies and stakeholders in the STI sector.
The Technology and Innovation Centers established by the ministry are intended as hubs for knowledge exchange, helping to accelerate research applications and build an innovation-driven economy.
Addressing the program’s participants, Chief Nnaji urged them to approach the training with dedication and to collaborate as “innovation clusters.”
He emphasised the collective efforts of these trainees which could foster Nigeria’s shift from a consumption-focused economy to one driven by production and innovation.
Also, he encouraged Nigerians to actively support these budding entrepreneurs by purchasing their products, which would help to ensure their long-term sustainability and market presence.
The Federal Government has announced an extension of the NYSC programme. It can be noted that the NYSC camp orientation is usually for three weeks before the youths go out to gain experience, employment, and serve the country for one year.
However, the FG announced that the passing-out parade from camp will be cancelled, and corps members will now spend six weeks in camp instead of three weeks.
“The first two weeks speak to laying a foundation on civic responsibility. The next two weeks will look at career mapping, basic accounting literacy skills, business planning and access to finance. The final two weeks, we intend to have focused corps-stream-specific training aligned with the corps member’s designated stream based on his choice, academic background and skills profile.”
With the rainy season in Nigeria, many are wondering if the increase in flooding has now become the new normal. Lots of videos, clips, and complaints have literally flooded online, showing how badly roads, homes, and other places have been affected.
We were used to hearing about the rise of water on the Island since it is literally surrounded by water, but now floods are being spotted on the Mainland as well.
We may not know exactly why this is happening, but one thing is certain—we urgently need a lasting solution.
The federal government reacted to claims stating that the new tax rules will be imposed on telecommunications and petroleum products for Nigerians.
The FG released a statement to explain the process and stated that there is no intention to place taxes on telecom and petroleum products and services.
“Those recommendations do not amount to government policy and are not binding on Nigeria. Decisions on tax matters are taken through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities and prevailing economic realities.”
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