Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on Nigeria to strengthen local manufacturing through investment in technology and the effective utilisation of its human and natural resources to reduce dependence on imported goods.
Jonathan made the call on Wednesday during the commissioning of the Zeetin Technologies manufacturing plant in Idu, Abuja, which produces tricycles for the Nigerian market.
He said Nigeria had the human and material resources needed to develop a strong manufacturing sector, noting that greater investment in domestic production would create economic opportunities, generate employment and accelerate national development.
The former president identified the country’s large youth population as a major asset that could drive industrial growth if properly harnessed, urging the government and private sector to invest in the skills, technology and productive capacity required to expand local manufacturing.
Jonathan also urged Nigeria to learn from countries that had successfully leveraged their human and natural resources to build strong manufacturing industries and establish themselves as producers and exporters of goods.
He stressed that developing local production capacity was essential to reducing the country’s dependence on foreign products and strengthening the domestic economy.
According to him, greater emphasis on technology and manufacturing would help Nigeria unlock the value of its resources, expand industrial activities and create more opportunities for its growing population.
The commissioning of the Zeetin Technologies plant, which manufactures tricycles for the domestic market, highlights the role of local manufacturers in meeting consumer demand and supporting Nigeria’s industrial development.
Jonathan’s call comes amid efforts to strengthen domestic production, promote locally made goods and reduce reliance on imports as part of broader measures to achieve sustainable economic growth.
He maintained that harnessing Nigeria’s human and natural resources, alongside investment in technology, would be critical to building a productive economy capable of creating jobs and supporting long-term development.
