Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris expertly led the second edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series (MPBS) alongside Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite at the National Press Centre in Abuja. The event is targeted at fostering open communication between government representatives and media, enhancing transparency and ensuring reliable information reaches the Nigerian public. Idris stated that the purpose of the gathering is to establish trust and keep the citizens of Nigeria informed.
Through this platform, media outlets can have direct interactions with senior government officials, ensuring accountability is upheld. Minister Idris stressed that the Ministry of Information and National Orientation his Ministry’s dedication to transparency and providing access to information, underscoring the vital role journalists have in keeping the public informed. He reaffirmed the Series’ dedication to ensuring extensive coverage across both traditional and digital media channels. He acknowledged that there is a need for patience and trust while expressing dedication to fulfilling the President’s vision of Renewed Hope and assured that regular updates will be provided throughout the progress.
Focus is on advocating for Nigeria’s interest on key issues.
During her speech, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite discussed important projects focused on boosting the Economy and increasing employment opportunities in the country. She highlighted various strategic initiatives currently being implemented by her ministry, focusing on the Renewed Hope eight-point agenda which includes economic growth, job creation, access to capital, business environment improvement, and Poverty reduction. The Ministry is dedicated to negotiating Nigeria’s entry into the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA), as it sees the benefits of Export diversification, expanded market access, and higher foreign investment, she added.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite pointed out her focus on advocating for interest on key issues such as digital trade and illegal trans shipments at the recent 13th AFCFTA Trade Minister’s meeting. Various projects are aimed at improving the trading environment for farmers and miners. The enhancements to NCX operations, extensive outreach campaigns, and the creation of a National Job Centre are all part of the ongoing initiatives. Among others, the Skill-UP Artisans program (SUPA) seeks to empower 10 million Artisans by providing them with technological skills and industry-recognized certifications.
Collaboration with foreign countries yield positive results.
This initiative aims to bridge skills gaps and decrease the need for imported labor. Partnering with the Nigeria Diaspora Commission, the Ministry is enhancing its initiative to attract investments from Nigerians living abroad. Dr. Uzoka-Anite pointed out the positive outcomes of working together with other countries, such as the G20 summit in India which led to $14 billion in foreign direct Investment commitments for Nigeria. Continued partnerships with countries like India, Germany, and the Netherlands are opening up new investment possibilities and shared regulatory structures.
Despite challenges like inadequate infrastructure, administrative obstacles, and unpredictable global economic conditions, Dr. Uzoka-Anite made it clear that her Ministry is dedicated to finding creative solutions and working together with various sectors. She stated that the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment is instrumental in carrying out the President’s agenda by implementing initiatives like IDEC letters and BIP programs to boost production capacity. Recent tours of factories were conducted to identify and tackle challenges encountered by manufacturers, with a focus on empowering Nigerians, attracting investments, and unlocking economic opportunities.
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She mentioned that the National Trade Intelligence Unit will revolutionize the industry by offering essential trade information and predictions to improve market effectiveness and business operations. Also present at the event were distinguished guests such as Dr. Ngozi Onwudiwe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Information and Strategy, and CEOs from various agencies affiliated with both Ministries.