BUSINESS: Japan International Agency Seeks Partnership To Boost Nigeria's Industrial Sector
Ndifereke BASSEY
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has expressed its commitment to partnering with Nigerian government to address challenges within the country’s industrial sector.
The Chief Representative of (JICA) , Mr. Yuzurio Susumu, who spoke during a strategic meeting with the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, held in Abuja recently, said the meeting focused on enhancing productivity and promoting sustainable growth in Nigeria.
Accompanied by the Deputy Director of International Cooperation at Japan Productivity Centre, Mr. Masayasu Okuyama alongside other team members, Susumu said the Agency will implement diverse cooperation modalities.
including technical cooperation, finance and investment, grants for entrepreneurial development, and private-sector collaboration.
He explained that JICA's multifaceted approach to supporting Nigeria is designed to foster high-quality, inclusive economic and social development, adding that, the strategy encompasses building a resilient and sustainable economic foundation, creating an inclusive and robust health and medical system, and promoting peace and stability.
Speaking during the strategic meeting, the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, commended the Japanese government for its commitment to supporting Nigeria's economy.
He said the industrial sector is a hub of diversification, which stands as the most suitable area for such interventions.
Senator Enoh referenced the 8-point agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly its 7th point, which focuses on economic diversification through industrialisation, digitisation, creative arts, manufacturing, and innovation.
The Minister assured JICA of the federal government’s active engagement in fostering international cooperation, stating that the ministry is pivotal in establishing the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG) to advance this mandate.
He expressed optimism about the sector’s contributions toward increasing Nigeria's GDP, emphasising thematic priorities such as energy infrastructure, affordable long-term financing, skills development, and innovation.
