• Diaspora, Bitrus, seeks ways to unlock state’s potential
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Sunday Bitrus is President, Zumunta Association, USA and founder, Awadzi Centre for Empowerment and Education (ACEE) Foundation. He shares his views on how best to address national challenges, leverage on Nasarawa State’s immense potential, and reducing dependency on government jobs.
How would you assess governance in Nigeria with particular to insecurity, unemployment and education?
While progress has been made in governance, Nigeria still faces significant challenges. Insecurity continues to be a major issue, impacting not only the economy but also the social fabric of the nation. Unemployment remains high, especially among young people, which is a ticking time bomb if not addressed.
Education is another area that requires urgent attention. Without proper funding, infrastructure and a focus on quality, the nation cannot build the human capital needed for its development. More strategic and targeted policies are needed to address these issues comprehensively.
What key policies do you think can bring about tangible progress in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and systemic inefficiencies?
To fight corruption effectively, Nigeria must strengthen its institutions and ensure they operate independently without interference. There should be stricter enforcement of accountability laws and penalties for corruption.
Leveraging technology for transparency, such as e-governance and digital payment systems, can reduce opportunities for corruption. Policies like open contracting and the protection of whistle blowers are also critical in creating an environment where corrupt practices are less likely to thrive.
Beyond financial contributions, how can Nigerians abroad actively participate in shaping the nation’s future?
Nigerians in the diaspora can contribute in numerous ways beyond remittances. Skill transfers are critical. Many Nigerians abroad have expertise in various fields that can be shared through training and capacity-building programmes.
Investing in local businesses and partnering with communities to implement development projects are other avenues. Advocacy and lobbying for better policies in Nigeria from their host countries can also play a role in shaping the nation’s future.
Are there initiatives or partnerships between the Zumunta Association, USA and the Nigerian government to address national challenges?
Yes, the Zumunta Association, USA, has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at addressing some of these challenges. For instance, we have healthcare outreach programmes that provide medical services to underprivileged communities.
We also offer scholarships to deserving students to help them achieve their educational goals. We run training programmes for young entrepreneurs. However, the collaboration with the Nigerian government can be further strengthened to ensure these initiatives have a broader reach and greater impact.
With a growing population of young people in Nigeria, what strategies can the country adopt to harness this demographic dividend effectively?
Nigeria’s young population is its greatest asset. But to harness this demographic dividend, the focus must be on education reform and skill acquisition programmes. The country needs to invest in creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Policies that encourage investment in technology, digital skills and start-up ecosystems will be key to unlocking the potential of the youth population. Mentoring and leadership development programmes should be implemented to prepare young people for the future.
How can education reform and skill acquisition programmes bridge the gap between academic institutions and job markets in Nigeria?
Education reform should aim at introducing industry-specific courses that align with market demands. Collaboration between academic institutions and businesses is vital to ensure that the curriculum meets the skills needed in the job market.
Internship opportunities should also be expanded to provide students with practical experience. Vocational training centres should be established to equip individuals with employable skills outside traditional academic paths.
Nasarawa State is rich in resources. What steps do you recommend for transforming the potential into economic powerhouse?
Nasarawa has immense potential. But to transform it into an economic powerhouse, the focus should be on value addition in agriculture and solid minerals. This means processing raw materials locally rather than exporting them in their crude forms.
Infrastructure development is key, particularly in transportation and energy, to support industries. The state must also create investor-friendly policies to attract both local and foreign investments. Establishing special economic zones in key sectors can further boost development.
How can the state attract investors to develop industries that can drive economic growth and create employment opportunities?
To attract investors, Nasarawa needs to provide incentives like tax breaks and grants. Reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring ease of doing business are also crucial. The state should actively showcase its potential at investment forums and engage with the private sector to understand their needs. Building trust through consistent and transparent policies will be vital in attracting and retaining investors.
What specific areas in Nasarawa require immediate attention to unlock the state’s economic potential?
The transportation sector needs urgent attention, particularly road networks, to facilitate the movement of goods and people. Reliable energy is also critical to power industries and attract investors.
Furthermore, investment in irrigation systems can significantly enhance agricultural productivity. Addressing these areas will unlock Nasarawa’s economic potential and create ripple effects on other sectors.
How can the state leverage Public Private Partnership (PPP) to accelerate development?
Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) are a powerful tool for infrastructure development. Through PPPs, the state can share financial and operational responsibilities with private entities, leveraging their expertise and resources.
Nasarawa can adopt this model for projects in transportation, energy, and housing. To succeed, the government must ensure transparent procurement processes and create conducive environment for private sector participation.
Dependency on government jobs remains high in Nasarawa. What strategies can be adopted to promote entrepreneurship and private sector growth?
Promoting entrepreneurship starts with creating access to affordable credit facilities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Organising entrepreneurship training programmes and mentorship schemes can also empower individuals to start their businesses. Government should implement business-friendly policies, such as reducing taxes for start-ups and providing infrastructural support, to encourage private-sector growth.
We have the talent and resources. What we need now is the will, vision and collaboration to build a brighter future for Nasarawa and Nigeria as a whole.
The state needs to increase its inclusive policies, because a house divided against itself cannot stand.