Boost National Productivity, Ex-Deputy Govs Advise Federal Govt

The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), conference on  “Boosting Nigeria’s Productive Capacity for National Growth and Self- Reliance: The Role of Leadership, Industry and Innovation in policy Implementation,” held at the Continental Hotel in Abuja, has Urged the federal government to boost national productivity in the country to enhance economic growth.

They also commended the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts at economic reform and infrastructural renewal, specifically praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” policy.

The forum In a draft communique endorsed by the  National Chairman, Chris Akomas,   Deputy National Chairman North, Muktar Anka  and Deputy National Chairman South, Barr. Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi, called on the federal government to strengthen mechanisms for sustainable economic growth, inclusive prosperity, and genuine self-reliance of citizens.

They said, “Among the key resolutions reached at the conference are the demand to leveraging Nigeria’s youthful population, agricultural and mineral resources, and growing intellectual and technological capital to enhance productivity.”

The forum  recommended enacting legislation to ensure policy continuity and programme sustainability beyond political regimes.

They recommended promoting a long-term vision of productivity, upholding integrity, and building resilient institutions.

They further recommended Reviving local industries and diversifying into agro-industrialization, solid minerals, and digital technologies

They also recommended prioritizing education, healthcare, and technical and vocational skills development for citizens.

The forum stressed on redefining industrial policy to prioritize small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) as drivers of job creation and economic growth.

They also recommended reactivating moribund cocoa grinding plants, revitalizing the textile industry, and pursuing investments, flexible credit access, and protective tariffs. Additionally, they suggested encouraging public-private investment in community processing centers, promoting cocoa consumption, and training youths on cocoa farming.

The forum stressed on the need to enforce the use of made-in-Nigeria fabrics for school uniform. Procuring 100 million cocoa seedlings and encouraging Nigerians to plant them. Reintroducing agricultural extension services to support farming communities. Strengthening the Bank of Agriculture and Bank of Industry. Redirecting the National Orientation Agency’s messages to capture the minds of youths and direct them towards agricultural production.

They  emphasised the need for a re-orientation of the Nigerian mindset to develop a love for made-in-Nigeria products and create easy access to low-interest credit facilities for farmers and industrialists.