Nigeria’s economy will be driven by citizens’ talent, creativity, skills – Information Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that Nigeria is ready to compete on the global stage, stressing that Nigerian talent is ready to work.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the minister said it was time for the world should look to Nigeria for talent.

The minister pointed out that for decades, discussions about exports have focused largely on the products that leave our shores: oil, agricultural produce, solid minerals and manufactured goods.

He said that the global economy has changed, adding that knowledge, skills, creativity and professional services can cross borders without the movement of physical goods.

“Indeed, Nigeria is very well placed to compete in the rapidly evolving global economy of the 21st century. We have a large and youthful population, a growing pool of world-class professionals, a strong entrepreneurial culture, strong English-language proficiency, a favourable time zone, and increasing capabilities in technology, creative services, business support and other digitally delivered services,’ he said

“But having talent is not enough. The world must know that the talent exists, and must have confidence in the quality of our professionals and businesses. That is why communication is central to this Campaign, and is where the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation comes in.

“We have a responsibility to ensure that the story of Nigerian talent is told clearly, credibly and consistently. Through our communication platforms, agencies and partnerships, we will support efforts to give the campaign the visibility it deserves, both within Nigeria and internationally.

“We will also speak directly to young Nigerians, and remind them that the opportunities of the modern economy are no longer limited by geography. A young Nigerian does not have to leave the country to participate in the global economy.

“With the right skills, infrastructure, professional standards, and access to markets, Nigerians can live and work and earn here at home, while providing valuable services to clients and employers worldwide, with Nigeria benefiting from foreign exchange inflows, tax revenues, and an expanded skills and knowledge base.

“Under the President’s vision and leadership, the Federal Government has unveiled a strategy to make Nigeria a major hub for talent and services exports, with the ambition of creating one million export-linked jobs over five years.

“The future of Nigeria’s economy will increasingly be driven by the talent, creativity, skills and productivity of our people.

“The message of today is therefore simple: Nigeria is ready to compete on the global stage. Nigerian talent is ready to work. And the world should look to Nigeria.”