An Ibadan-based industrialist, Alhaji (Engr.) Adekunle Abdulkareem, has called for increased investment in infrastructure and electricity to accelerate Nigeria’s journey towards economic independence.
Abdulkareem, who is the Mogaji Adanla in Ibadan and Turaki Adeen of Oyo State, made the call while delivering a lecture at the maiden edition of the Big 2026 October Lecture, organised by the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ibadan Zonal Station.Speaking on the theme, “Nigeria at 66: From Political Independence to Economic Independence, What Must We Do Differently?” the renowned engineer emphasised the need for governments at all levels to create an enabling environment for small-scale businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He maintained that adequate infrastructure and reliable electricity would attract investors to establish industries in Nigeria, stimulate economic activities and create employment opportunities for citizens.The industrialist also expressed concern over the alleged poor treatment of Nigerians working in some foreign-owned companies, where many are reportedly engaged as casual workers and subjected to undignified working conditions.
He called on the government to strengthen the protection of workers’ rights and ensure that Nigerians receive fair treatment and dignity for their labour.On energy, Abdulkareem advocated a deliberate shift towards cleaner and more sustainable sources of power, urging the government to demonstrate the political will required to transform the country’s energy sector. He noted that cleaner energy could reduce costs, protect the environment and safeguard human health.He expressed optimism that a prosperous Nigeria was achievable if citizens embraced patriotism and demonstrated greater commitment to national development.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in providing infrastructure across the country, Abdulkareem urged Nigerians to take ownership of development projects in their respective communities by protecting public facilities and ensuring their sustainability.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Zonal Director of FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Pastor Olufemi Fulani, called on governments at all levels to translate Nigeria’s political independence into economic prosperity, increased productive capacity and improved living standards for citizens.Fulani stressed the need for Nigerians to move beyond discussions and embrace practical commitments, actionable ideas and measurable steps capable of bringing about meaningful changes in their communities and the national economy.
He called on policymakers, business leaders, development partners, academics and citizens to rise above business as usual and work collectively towards building a country where national resources generate wealth, industries create employment and young people have access to meaningful opportunities.“The future of Nigeria will not be determined by what we discuss here today, but by what we choose to do differently from tomorrow,” he said.The FRCN zonal director reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to leveraging the power of credible broadcasting to inform and educate the public, promote constructive conversations, amplify practical solutions and sustain public engagement on issues affecting national development.
The lecture provided a platform for stakeholders to examine practical approaches to achieving economic independence and identify the policy changes and collective actions needed to translate Nigeria’s political freedom into sustainable economic growth and improved welfare for its citizens.
