Nigeria Needs Productive Economy, Not Consumption-Driven Growth — Asikhia

The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate seat, Professor Festus Uwakhemen Asikhia, has called for policies that prioritise productivity, job creation and sustainable economic growth, arguing that Nigeria must move beyond a consumption-driven economy.

Asikhia spoke on Wednesday in Abuja following engagements with party stakeholders after emerging as the party’s candidate for the FCT Senate seat.

He said Nigeria’s economic challenges require leadership focused on practical solutions capable of expanding opportunities and improving living conditions.

According to him, economic growth should translate into measurable benefits for citizens through stronger investment in infrastructure, enterprise development and employment generation.

“We must build an economy that creates opportunities for young people. We must strengthen access to quality healthcare and education. We must address housing challenges and support infrastructure that improves productivity and quality of life,” he said.

Asikhia argued that economic planning should move beyond short-term consumption and focus more on sectors capable of creating value and supporting long-term development.

“The FCT is one of the most important territories in Nigeria. It should be a model of development, innovation and effective governance. Yet many communities continue to face challenges relating to infrastructure, housing, unemployment, healthcare and economic opportunities,” he said.

The ZLP candidate said governance should be driven by outcomes and accountability.

“Leadership is ultimately about results. It is about identifying problems, creating solutions and ensuring that citizens feel the impact of government policies in their daily lives.”

Asikhia, who has a background in business and academia, said his experience has shaped his views on governance and development.

He maintained that stronger collaboration between government institutions and the private sector remains critical to achieving sustainable economic growth.

According to him, Nigeria’s growing population and urban expansion require policies that encourage innovation while ensuring development reaches underserved communities.

He identified youth unemployment, economic empowerment, housing and infrastructure as areas requiring sustained legislative attention.

Asikhia said his focus would remain on policies that improve representation and support economic opportunities for residents of the Federal Capital Territory.

“The purpose of leadership is service. Governance must be centred on improving lives and creating opportunities for people.”