The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Kano/Jigawa branch, has called on the Federal Government to create a more enabling environment for industries to thrive in the country.
Its Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Bello Isyaku Umar, made the call on Tuesday at the association’s three-day Annual General Meeting (AGM) and exhibition in Kano.
Umar said Nigeria’s population of over 200 million made it impossible for government alone to provide employment for the teeming youth.
He stressed the need for government at all levels to recognise the critical role of the private sector in job creation and economic growth.
“This can only be achieved through industrial-friendly policies, affordable electricity and other support systems that will enable industries to grow and absorb more youths,” Umar said.
On his part, Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting private sector growth as a strategy for reducing unemployment.
Yusuf, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi, urged the Federal Government to introduce policies that would uplift farmers, strengthen the private sector and support rice millers.
He said Kano had comparative advantage in agro-processing and trading, which if harnessed, could serve as a growth driver for the state and the entire northern region.
The governor further disclosed that discussions were ongoing between Kano State and the Republic of Chad to explore investment opportunities in the livestock market.