Shettima urges Africa to process raw materials locally
Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for African countries to control their resources and global trade by adding value to raw materials within the continent. During a visit to the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone in the Republic of Benin, he highlighted the importance of developing industries that can process raw materials into finished products. Shettima expressed satisfaction with Benin’s achievements in mass production and export of locally sourced resources. He believes that reviving Nigeria’s textile value chain could create jobs, boost non-oil exports, and stimulate economic growth.
What we know
- Kashim Shettima visited the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, to assess its industrial facilities.
- He stressed that Africa benefits from only about one percent of the global cotton industry, which is valued at 370 billion dollars.
- The vice president praised Benin’s efforts in creating integrated value chains for cotton, cashew, and soya bean.
- Shettima said Nigeria is setting up eight agro-industrial zones in eight states to replicate Benin’s success.
- He was accompanied by several Nigerian state governors and was briefed by Benin’s Minister of Tourism and Foreign Trade.
