In order to create employment opportunities and address the challenge of poverty among Nigerians, President Muhammadu Buhari has assured that his administration would focus on reviving different sectors of the economy in 2020.
This was stated by the President in a letter released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, NAN reported.
Buhari disclosed that economic opportunities would be created in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing and so on. He said that increased value would be realised from the oil and gas industry in 2020.
The sector, according to him, would be more competitive, attractive and profitable as it operates on commercial principles with no political interference whatsoever.
Buhari’s words: “Just last week, we were able to approve a fair framework for the $10 billion expansion of Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas, which will increase exports by 35 per cent, restore our position as a world leader in the sector and create thousands of jobs.
“The Amendment of the Deep Offshore Act in October signalled our intention to create a modern, forward-looking industry in Nigeria. I am confident that in 2020 we will be able to present a radical programme of reform for oil and gas that will excite investors, improve governance and strengthen protections for host communities and the environment.
“We can expect the pace of change in technology only to accelerate in the decade ahead. Coupled with our young and vibrant population, this offers huge opportunities if we are able to harness the most productive trends and tame some of the wilder elements.
“This is a delicate balance with which many countries are struggling. We are seeking an informed and mature debate that reflects our rights and responsibilities as citizens in shaping the boundaries of how best to allow technology to benefit Nigeria.”
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Details: Speaking on the economy, the President noted the changes the administration had put in place in order to enhance the ease of doing business in the country.
He said that the government had made significant progress in terms of improving transportation. Key roads such as the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and the Abuja–Kano highway have all been rehabilitated. Also, he made known that in 2020, tangible progress would be made on the Lagos to Kano rail line.
According to Buhari, alternative funding programmes in collaboration with private sector partners have been made to fix strategic roads such as the Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway
The full text of President Buhari’s letter has earlier been published by Nairametrics here.
