Industrial Revival, Agriculture Crucial to National Self-Reliance — FFDGN

By our Correspondent

The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) has emphasized the need for stronger commitment to industrial revival, agricultural development, and youth empowerment as essential pillars for boosting Nigeria’s productive capacity and achieving national self-reliance.

This position was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by the Forum’s National Chairman, Dr. Chris Akomas; Deputy National Chairman (North), Muktar Anka; and Deputy National Chairman (South), Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi, at the end of its Fourth National Conference held in Abuja.

The Forum commended the Federal Government for its ongoing reforms and infrastructural renewal initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity and national self-sufficiency.

It also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “Nigeria First Policy,” describing it as a patriotic demonstration of commitment to sustainable growth and development.

The former deputy governors urged all tiers of government to strengthen policy continuity through legislation that ensures key reforms transcend political administrations.

They further stressed the importance of leadership that promotes a long-term vision of productivity, upholds integrity, and builds strong institutions capable of sustaining economic growth.

The communiqué underscored the need to revive local industries and diversify the economy through agro-industrialization, solid minerals, and digital technology. It also recommended redefining Nigeria’s industrial policy to prioritize small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) as key drivers of job creation and national expansion.

The Forum advocated for stronger public-private partnerships to fund research, foster innovation, and enhance productivity. It further called on federal and state governments to maintain investments in critical infrastructure such as roads, power, and transport networks, describing them as “vital enablers of productivity.”

On agriculture, the Forum proposed the revival of cocoa grinding plants, the revitalization of the textile industry, and the training of youths in cocoa farming, alongside the establishment of cocoa development units in every state.

It also urged government to procure and distribute 100 million cocoa seedlings, enforce the use of made-in-Nigeria fabrics for school uniforms, and establish at least one silo and a farmers’ market in each local government area.

Additionally, the communiqué called for improved access to low-interest loans through the Bank of Agriculture and the Bank of Industry, as well as enhanced collaboration with development partners to boost value addition and storage technology.

The Forum further urged the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to promote pride in made-in-Nigeria products and encourage youth participation in agriculture.

In conclusion, the FFDGN reaffirmed its support for the Federal Government’s pursuit of inclusive growth and national development, urging Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and unity as pathways to a self-reliant and prosperous nation.

The two-day conference, themed “Boosting Nigeria’s Productive Capacity for National Growth and Self-Reliance,” brought together former deputy governors from across the country.