BY RITA OYIBOKA
United Nations Eminent Ambassador, Dr. Ogochuku Okekpolo, has called on the Federal Government to wean Nigeria off its dependence on imported goods by compelling foreign companies to set up production plants locally.
Speaking with journalists after receiving the Leading Woman in Leadership Award at the Connect Her Network Conference in Abuja, Okekpolo argued that Nigeria’s fast-growing population and market strength should be leveraged to attract genuine investment rather than serving as a dumping ground.
“China is flying its goods here, and Nigeria is buying. Why don’t we give them an ultimatum? If you want us to buy, build your plants here. Nigeria is the emerging
market for the world,” she said.
Okekpolo, who also serves as Director of Women in Energy, Oil and Gas (WEOG), Delta State Chapter, stressed that Nigeria must first tackle its infrastructure deficit before such policies can thrive.
“Steady power supply, good roads, and improved security must be treated as non-negotiables if we want to create jobs and attract real investors,” she added.
Earlier, in her acceptance speech, Okekpolo drew attention to women’s role in nation-building, urging women to collaborate rather than compete.
“Together, we can be better as women, and together we can build a better society. What is not useful to you may be useful to another. Women are nurturers, the building blocks of the nation. Men have carried too much burden; it is time for women’s voices to be heard louder,” she said.
The Connect Her Network Conference, anchored by Ambassador Victoria Ogwuche Ojiah, convened leading women across sectors and unveiled the Connect Her mobile app, a digital platform designed to link women globally to mentorship, resources, and opportunities.
