Buhari Speaks On Banning Importation Of Basic Items

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday in Abuja, reiterated the determination of his administration to stop the importation of basic items to create job opportunities for unemployed citizens across the country.

The President stated this when he received leadership of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) led by its acting President, Mr Taiwo Adeniyi, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He also revealed that the Federal Government had put in place various measures and sustainable platform for businesses to succeed in the country.

Buhari said: “Nigeria is a blessed country with abundant resources. We have all it takes locally to meet our most basic needs.
“Our history of unnecessary importation of the most basic items meant we were exporting jobs to other countries at the expense of our own citizens.

“This administration is determined and taking steps to bring these jobs back to Nigeria. Our policies are simply designed for that.

“There is no doubt, the implementation of such policies will not be hitch free. As you have pointed out, there are challenges in some areas that need to be addressed.

“I want to assure you that we are looking into these and other matters to ensure we have a sustainable platform for businesses to succeed.’’

The President, however, observed that the journey toward achieving this feat was a long one that requires patience, understanding and perseverance.

He, therefore, enjoined members of the association to continue to engage government by providing honest and constructive feedback, saying “together, we can build a Nigeria that we will all be proud of.’’

Buhari also assured that the Federal government would continue to do its best to support the members of the association in their efforts as employers of labour.