In a recent news by Vanguard, legal luminary and elder statesman Aare Afe Babalola has asserted that Nigeria faces a future of perpetual poverty unless it shifts from a consumption-based economy to one focused on production. Babalola made this statement during the opening of the inaugural Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) Industrial Park Trade Fair in Ado-Ekiti, an event organized in collaboration with the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE). Later, he received the Icon Award for Excellence from the Akure Branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA).
Babalola warned that Nigeria's stagnation is likely to persist as long as the prevailing issues of indiscipline, poor work ethic, lack of vision, and patriotism remain unaddressed. He urged both Nigerians and their leaders to be genuinely committed to changing the nation's trajectory towards growth and prosperity. Describing the industrial park as a pivotal technology hub, Babalola emphasized that it aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application while creating employment opportunities for unemployed graduates and youth.
Additionally, Babalola expressed concern over the increasing number of contradictory judgments being issued by some courts on the same legal issues. He called upon the NBA members nationwide to convene urgently to address this disturbing trend and prevent further damage to the credibility and integrity of the legal profession. Through these remarks, Babalola highlighted the need for systemic reform and collective action to steer Nigeria towards a more productive and equitable future.