By Olamide Iwala,
Precious Oloruntoba,
Peace Oloruntoba

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Public analyst, Nelson Ekujumi has stressed that Nigeria’s overdependence on imports has crippled its economy, rendering the country vulnerable to global shocks and perpetuating unemployment.

Speaking on a radio programme in Akure, Ekujumi noted that the key to the nation’s survival lies in revitalising local manufacturing.

“Our economy can only be balanced when we reduce import dependency and focus on building our local industries,” he said emphatically.

Ekujumi pointed out that this ambitious goal demands collective commitment from the government, private sector players and citizens alike.

He however, warned that Nigeria’s weak infrastructure, especially its unreliable power supply, remains a significant barrier to industrial growth.

“The power sector has suffered decades of neglect, resulting in heavy subsidies but poor delivery,” Ekujumi observed.

“Power does not come by magic; it requires serious investment in generation and distribution.”

He further explained that without stable and affordable electricity, local manufacturers cannot compete, making Nigeria reliant on foreign goods.

Linking economic revival to education, Ekujumi highlighted that the country’s youth, the future workforce of the manufacturing sector are currently hindered by distractions and a lack of parental guidance.

“Parents have abdicated their responsibility to monitor their children’s studies, leaving education solely to schools,” he said.

“At the same time, children are distracted by social media, which impacts their academic performance.”

He cited a disturbing case in which a parent left a child in the custody of a teacher over the holidays, underscoring the erosion of family support systems.

Ekujumi warned that until Nigerians begin to address both the educational and infrastructural deficits, efforts to boost local manufacturing and economic growth will be futile.

“Building local manufacturing is not just about factories; it’s about building a nation that supports education, family values and infrastructure,” he concluded.

His call to action is clear: Nigeria must invest in power, empower its youth through education and nurture strong family foundations to unlock its manufacturing potential and secure economic survival.