Every October 1st, Nigerians proudly celebrate our independence, a reminder of our strength, resilience, and the limitless potential of our people. But as we reflect on 65 years of nationhood, one question stands tall: “how do we build a Nigeria that thrives beyond oil?”
For decades, crude oil has been at the center of Nigeria’s economy. Yet, the reality is clear , oil alone cannot guarantee prosperity. Even nations with little or no natural resources are thriving because their people are skilled, innovative, and productive.
Take Singapore for example. With no natural resources, the country turned to education, technology, and human capital development, transforming itself into one of the strongest economies in the world. South Korea rose from war and poverty to become a global tech giant by investing in skills, innovation, and industrial capacity. Even Rwanda, once torn apart by conflict, is becoming an African model of growth through ICT and entrepreneurship.
Skills Are the New Oil
Imagine a Nigeria where our citizens are globally recognized not only for crude oil but for world-class agriculture, fashion, technology, and culinary innovation.
Agriculture : Countries like The Netherlands, small in size but rich in agricultural skills feed millions across the world. Nigeria, with vast arable land and talented youths, can become a food powerhouse if we equip our people with modern skills in poultry, fishery, and crop production.
Technology : India has shown how tech skills can redefine an economy. Today, millions of young Indians drive the global IT and digital economy. Nigeria’s tech-savvy youth can do even more if given structured platforms for training and growth.
Fashion & Creativity : From Paris to Milan, the fashion industry generates billions annually. Nigeria is already blessed with creativity — our fabrics, styles, and designs stand out globally. With proper skill empowerment, our fashion industry could rival global fashion capitals.
Culinary Arts : Food is culture, food is business. Think of countries like Italy, whose cuisine contributes massively to its economy. Nigeria’s diverse dishes can be a global brand with the right culinary skills training.
Shifting the Mindset
True independence means freeing ourselves from dependence on a single resource. Oil may run dry, but skills never expire. A nation where citizens are empowered with relevant, sustainable skills will not only reduce unemployment but also attract global recognition and investment.
Our Role at 9ja Food Fiesta
At 9ja Food Fiesta, we believe in building this Nigeria beyond oil. This is why we are training 74,000 youths, women, and persons with disabilities in ICT, agriculture, fashion, and culinary arts, equipping them with tools that will last a lifetime.
We are nurturing a new generation of Nigerians who can compete globally, build sustainable businesses, and create solutions for tomorrow.
A Call to Action
On this Independence Day, let us rethink our priorities. Nigeria’s future will not be written in barrels of oil, but in the skills, creativity, and resilience of her people.
It’s time we invest more in people than in pipelines. It’s time we celebrate our independence by building a Nigeria where skills, not oil, are our greatest wealth.
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