Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, has said Nigeria should harness its abundant resources and human capital to diversify its economy, adding that it will help to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.
Abbas said continued over-reliance on oil by the country will only lead to inequality, greater poverty among Nigerians and mass unemployment.
The Speaker, while delivering the 14th convocation lecture of the Al-Hikmah University in Ilorin, noted that to secure Nigeria’s economic future, the country must decisively move beyond oil and develop sustainable pathways for inclusive growth.
“With dwindling oil revenues, global shifts toward renewable energy, and the increasing need for job-creation, it is imperative that we chart a new course for economic transformation.
“This requires deliberate efforts to unlock the potential of other sectors, such as agriculture, solid minerals, technology and the creative industries.
“Achieving this transformation will secure Nigeria’s economic future and address poverty, inequality and unemployment —- critical barriers to sustainable development,” he said.
Abbas also said examples of such countries toeing that line are Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
He also said Nigeria’s economic transformation demands collective responsibility, adding that the government must lead with visionary policies, transparent governance and strategic investments in infrastructure and education.
The Speaker noted that the legislature on its part should continue to ensure enabling legislation and ensure rigorous oversight of policies and programmes aimed at diversification.
He however pointed out that the academia has a vital role in conducting research, generating data-driven insights and developing skills essential for the new economy,” he stated.
