Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigeria to strengthen local manufacturing and develop the technology needed to produce more goods and services within the country.
Jonathan made the call on Wednesday while commissioning the Zeetin Technologies plant in Idu, Abuja, where tricycles are manufactured for the Nigerian market.
He said Nigeria must move away from excessive reliance on imported products by investing in its domestic production capacity.
According to the former president, the country has the human and material resources needed to build a stronger manufacturing sector and create more economic opportunities.
Jonathan Highlights Youths’ Role in Industrial Growth
Jonathan identified Nigeria’s large youth population as a major advantage that could help expand local industries and support national development.
He urged the country to learn from nations that have successfully used their resources and youthful populations to build manufacturing industries.
Such countries, he noted, have developed the capacity to produce goods for domestic consumption and export to international markets.
The former president stressed that Nigeria must make better use of its available resources and technology to increase local production.
Zeetin Technologies Plant Opens in Abuja
Jonathan made the remarks at the commissioning of the Zeetin Technologies plant in Idu, Abuja.
The facility manufactures tricycles for the Nigerian market, offering an example of local industrial activity.
His comments renewed calls for Nigeria to strengthen domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence and create more opportunities for young people.
Expanding local production could also help the country build a more resilient economy by increasing its capacity to meet domestic demand with locally manufactured goods.