By Samuel Oyejola
The Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Alex Okoh has challenged Nigerian youths to tap into opportunities in the agricultural sector to improve the economy.
The DG noted that the local demand for agricultural products in Nigeria is more than the supply. He said youth should take advantage of this as it is also in line with the policy of the Buhari led government to focus on non-oil export.
The DG said this in Abuja at a programme organized by Professionals Connect with the theme, Navigating Opportunities in a Challenging Economy.
Professionals Connect is a network of professionals and entrepreneurs committed to sharing ideas and expanding their business networks through available opportunities in the market place in a bid to attain self-reliance and promote economic development.
The BPE DG who was represented by Demola Folaju noted that Nigeria’s over dependence on export revenue from crude oil was the root cause of the recession. He said that although the recovery process is slow, a lot is being done by the government to pull the country totally out of the current challenges.
It must be noted that the government in 2015 had promised to boost the non-oil export to generate revenue for the country in the bid to reduce dependence on crude oil proceeds. Agriculture was one of the focuses. According to the bureau of statistics non-oil export revenue has increased compare to 2015 and 2016 report.
While pointing out that value is the basis of economic development and prosperity, he advised the gathering to focus on delivering value as it would attract money. “Money is no longer what it is before. If you want people’s money, you need to create value.
“Money will chase value if you are creating value. Money is smart this day unlike before”, he said.
He advised them to align with government policies and remain updated with latest innovation in their businesses and industry. “As an entrepreneur, you should align with government policies”.
The Co founder of Sahara group, Tonye Cole and the CEO, of AD Consulting Olajumoke Adenowo also spoke to the young Professionals and business owners at the event.
Professionals Connect was also supported by The Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David, Abuja.