According to the report from the Vanguard, Renowned legal luminary and Elder Statesman, Aare Afe Babalola, emphasized the critical importance of boosting production over consumption to uplift Nigeria from its current state of economic stagnation. Speaking at the inaugural Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) Industrial Park Trade Fair in Ado-Ekiti, Babalola highlighted the need for a fundamental shift in the country's approach to economic growth.
During the event, Babalola underscored the detrimental effects of ingrained indiscipline, poor work ethic, lack of vision, and patriotism on Nigeria's development trajectory. He called upon both the citizens and leaders of Nigeria to embrace a paradigm shift towards a more productive outlook to spur national growth.
He said, “It is true Nigeria today, is in the doldrums. That however does not mean we should throw patriotism and national interest into the mud. This is because to me, Nigeria can still become like USA of this world, or other great countries alike. But the bitter truth is that Nigeria can not suddenly become a USA with the way we do things continually and still expect different results. Nigeria is such a rich country, blessed with resources, good weather, friendly climate and money.
Notably, Babalola commended the establishment of the industrial park as a pivotal step towards fostering technological innovation, bridging the gap between academia and industry, and creating employment opportunities for the nation's burgeoning youth population.