Shettima Advocates for Local Processing in Africa

On Friday, Vice-President Kashim Shettima called for African countries to take control of their natural resources by ending the export of raw materials and prioritizing local processing and manufacturing. This statement was made during his visit to the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone in Cotonou, Benin Republic, where he assessed integrated cotton, textile, and agro-processing facilities.

Shettima stated that Africa must maximize its natural resources by developing industries that transform raw materials into higher-value products, thereby creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities. He noted that Nigeria's renewed industrialization drive aims to ensure no region is left behind, with the Federal Government collaborating with state governments to develop agro-industrial value chains.

Shettima expressed satisfaction with Benin's efforts in mass production and export of locally sourced resources and highlighted the potential of Nigeria's textile value chain to create millions of jobs. He mentioned that the visit was part of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and aimed to draw lessons from Benin's integrated value chains.