Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently emphasized Nigeria’s immense potential during his address at the Ecobank Design and Build Expo held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos. He praised the bank for organizing the event, which shines a spotlight on critical sectors such as architecture, building, construction, and design. His remarks underscored a national call to action, urging leaders across various levels to harness the vast resources available in Nigeria to elevate its status on the global stage. The expo serves not only as a platform for showcasing innovations but also as a reminder of the country’s capability to become a leader in these industries through effective resource management.
During his visit to the expo, Obasanjo explored a range of pavilions that featured the latest trends, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions in architecture and construction. He expressed his admiration for the high quality of work presented by the exhibitors, noting that the event highlights Nigeria’s potential to produce world-class products and services in the building industry. By showcasing advanced technologies and materials, the expo illustrates the competitive edge Nigeria holds in the Pan-African region, particularly in fostering development through the construction sector.
Obasanjo’s remarks returned to the importance of unity and collaboration among Nigeria’s leaders and stakeholders to maximize the nation’s capabilities. He called for a concerted effort to amalgamate the country’s facilities, expertise, and opportunities in order to construct homes, offices, and significant monuments using domestic resources. His enthusiasm and belief in Nigeria’s potential were evident as he articulated his confidence that the nation is blessed with everything necessary to thrive in the global market.
The ongoing expo, which began on November 27 and is scheduled to run until December 1, 2024, is themed “Building Nigeria Together.” Daily sessions commence at 10:00 am and feature over 60 exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations and products. The theme of the event emphasizes the collective responsibility of Nigerians to collaborate and contribute to the building of the nation. This encourages a sense of patriotism and promotes the idea that a unified approach can result in significant advancements within the country’s industries.
Among the notable exhibitors at the expo is SABA Steel, recognized as Nigeria’s largest steel manufacturer. Coleman Wire & Cables, a leading cable producer in West Africa, is also participating alongside other major players like Dulux Paints, HTL Africa, and ITB Nigeria Limited. These companies represent the best of Nigeria’s capabilities in construction and design, highlighting the country’s diverse industrial landscape. Their participation at the expo not only engages industry professionals but also inspires future investments and innovations that can lead to economic growth.
In conclusion, Obasanjo’s participation in the Ecobank Design and Build Expo aligns with his longstanding commitment to national development and leadership. His call to action resonates with the need for concerted efforts to utilize Nigeria’s abundant resources effectively. By fostering collaboration across sectors and uniting various stakeholders, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a formidable force in architecture and construction on the global stage. The expo stands as a pivotal event for showcasing progress, exchanging ideas, and galvanizing support for initiatives that can propel the nation forward in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
