The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Abubakar Abba Bello, has called on Nigerian youth and women to tap into investment opportunities in non-oil sectors that align with their passions and skills.
Mr. Bello made this appeal on Tuesday during an impactful session organized by the Youth Wing of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Dr. Dayo Israel at the Youth House in Abuja. The event was part of an ongoing initiative designed to foster direct engagement between policymakers and citizens under the Renewed Hope Agenda, with the aim of strengthening national development.
The interactive session focused on educating young Nigerians and the women folk about the vast financing and entrepreneurial opportunities available within Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operating in Nigeria’s non-oil sectors. Bello emphasized that greater youth participation in these sectors is critical for sustainable economic growth and long-term national prosperity.
“True success in business often comes when people invest in areas they are genuinely passionate about,” Bello noted. “Whether it’s agribusiness, services, the creative industry, or solid minerals—there is room for growth. NEXIM has a strong presence and offers support across all these value chains.”
He urged young people to channel their energy, creativity, and innovation into ventures that not only align with their interests but also contribute to national export development.
“What I want to appeal to the youth to do—and what I strongly encourage—is to invest where your heart is. Whether that’s in agriculture, processing, or the creative industries, you’re more likely to succeed when you’re passionate about what you do,” he said.
Bello highlighted the immense untapped potential within non-oil sectors and reaffirmed their importance in Nigeria’s ongoing economic diversification strategy.
“In all these value chains, Nigeria is yet to reach its full potential. But I believe the energy, intelligence, and creativity of our youth can make a significant difference. When young people engage in export-oriented ventures, the impact can be transformative.”
He also commended the APC Youth Wing for launching initiatives that encourage youth engagement in the export space, describing their efforts as both timely and strategic.
In his remarks, Dr. Dayo Israel, the APC National Youth Leader, reiterated his commitment to bridging the gap between citizens and government. He explained that the initiative was born out of concern from young Nigerians and women who often feel disconnected from policy-making processes.
“Many of our citizens, especially youth and women, have expressed frustration over limited access to policymakers. That’s why we launched this programme—to bring citizens and government representatives together for meaningful engagement,” Dr. Israel stated.
He further assured that he would “leave no stone unturned” in ensuring that the voices and needs of Nigerian youth are heard and addressed across all sectors of the economy.
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