Eminent Nigerians have drummed support for President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration on the closure of Nigeria’s border, which is meant to improve Nigeria’s economic growth.
They disclosed this at the 2019 Investiture of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) on Saturday in Lagos.
The theme of the event was: “Nigeria’s Emerging New Economy: Opportunities, Challenges and Prospects.”
Ex Secretary-General, Commonwealth of Nations, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, said the closure would only enhance economic development in Nigeria.
His words, “We should support our foreign border closure by President Muhammadu Buhari and his ultimate importance to the home grown policy.
“If it will be the government’s concentration in a demonstrable manner on measures for enhancing the country’s development of agriculture and agro industry.
“And also for enhancing the country’s manufacturing capacity to be able to serve our internal consumption and export.
“It is clear that the abundance variety of Nigeria’s natural resources and our large population constitute adequate phases for the country’s economic prosperity.
“If the Federal and State Governments can show a determination to provide the necessary policy and practical support.
“And also if our citizens can be persuaded or even coerced through regulation into curbing their appetite for imported, rather than locally produced goods, there will be a tremendous turn around in the economy.”
Dr. Baba Musa, the Director-General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), also begged Nigerians to understand the reason for the border closure.
His words, “The border closure was not an attempt to stifle business or discourage manufacturers from selling their goods.
“It is to check smuggling and multiplication of arms that are coming in through the borders to create insecurity in the country and to enable genuine traders to move their goods and services, through the normal channel and pay the appropriate duties and charges.
“It’s a welcome development, we have seen the outcome.
“Nigerians should encourage this until such a time that our neighbours come to terms, on the need to protect our borders from smuggling and activities that create insecurity.”
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate