FG, focus on manufacturing sector

A recently-published Human Development Report on Nigeria by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has urged the Nigerian government to pay attention to the effects of its policies on the ordinary citizens.

The report, entitled “Achieving Growth with Equity,” observed that over half of the country’s population still live below the poverty line.

Although agriculture has been witnessing steady growth over the years, the manufacturing sector continues to lag behind,   hence, the value added to agricultural produce remains minimal.

Unfortunately, the manufacturing capacity in the country has remained below 40 per cent, and many firms have had to close down operations due to the harsh business environment. Yet, the manufacturing sector should be both the stimulus and pivot of economic and social growth, if we are to create jobs for our teeming youths.

• Vincent Kadiri,

Benin.