The House of Representatives has called for increased technology transfer and local production partnerships with European countries as a way to harness the nation’s abundant raw materials, create jobs for its growing youth population, and curb irregular migration.
‎The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu made the call on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of European parliamentarian under the First Step Forum, led by Mr. Marc Jost, during a courtesy, in Abuja
‎The visit was aimed at improving bilateral ties and fostering collaboration on shared global challenges.
‎Advocating for the economic model known as near-shoring, the Deputy Speaker stressed the need to relocate technology, finance, and industrial capacity closer to regions where raw materials were sourced, particularly in Africa.
‎According to him, Nigeria should move from exporting commodities like cocoa and lithium to processing them locally into finished goods such as chocolate and electric vehicle batteries.
‎Kalu further called for a reset in Africa-Europe relations, urging both sides to move beyond historical grievances and build a future anchored on mutual respect, partnership, and shared prosperity.
Edited by Favour Owonibi.