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

Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has declared the nation ready to compete on the global stage, emphasizing the readiness of Nigerian talent. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the minister highlighted that the world should now look to Nigeria for talent, underscoring the shift in the global economy from product exports to knowledge, skills, creativity, and professional services.

Idris noted that Nigeria possesses a large, youthful population, a growing pool of world-class professionals, a strong entrepreneurial culture, proficiency in English, favorable time zone, and increasing capabilities in technology, creative services, and business support.

However, he stressed that talent alone is insufficient; the world must recognize its existence and trust the quality of Nigerian professionals and businesses. To achieve this, effective communication is crucial, which is why the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation is spearheading this campaign. The ministry aims to showcase Nigeria's talent, credibility, and consistency through its communication platforms, agencies, and partnerships.

It also intends to directly engage young Nigerians, reminding them that the opportunities of the modern economy are not confined by geography. A young Nigerian can now participate in the global economy without leaving the country, provided they have the necessary skills, infrastructure, professional standards, and market access.

The government, under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, has launched a strategy to position Nigeria as a major hub for talent and services exports. This initiative aims to create one million export-linked jobs within five years. Idris concluded by emphasizing that Nigeria's future economic success will increasingly rely on the talent, creativity, skills, and productivity of its citizens. He reiterated that Nigeria is ready to compete globally, with Nigerian talent prepared to work and contribute.