MAN, TRANSGREEN PUSH EDUCATION INVESTMENT FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and Transgreen Nigeria Limited have called for greater investment in education and human capital development to help Nigeria turn its large population into an economic advantage.

The call was made by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transgreen Nigeria Limited, Pastor Cyprian Orakpo, during his 60th birthday celebration in Lagos.

Orakpo said Nigeria’s population could support industrial growth, innovation and consumption if citizens were properly educated and equipped with relevant skills.

He warned that poverty, deprivation and inadequate education could instead turn the country’s population into an economic burden.

According to him, a well-educated population would encourage creativity, innovation and industrial development while helping to reduce unemployment and insecurity.

He argued that Nigeria should place greater emphasis on developing its people rather than relying mainly on its natural resources.

Orakpo also identified poor infrastructure, inefficient customs processes, port challenges and bad roads as some of the difficulties affecting manufacturers.

The Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, described Orakpo as an active member of the association who had contributed to its advocacy efforts and provided recommendations aimed at improving the business environment.

The development comes amid broader calls for stronger links between education, skills development and economic productivity.

For Nigeria to fully benefit from its large population, stakeholders continue to emphasise the need for quality education, practical skills and opportunities that enable citizens to participate meaningfully in economic activities.