FORMER PRESIDENT JONATHAN CALLS FOR INDUSTRIAL CAPACITY TO STRENGTHEN AFRICA’S SECURITY. (PHOTO).

 

FORMER PRESIDENT JONATHAN CALLS FOR INDUSTRIAL CAPACITY TO STRENGTHEN AFRICA’S SECURITY

With millions of young Africans entering the labour market every year, Africa’s limited industrial capacity is no longer just an economic concern, it is increasingly becoming a challenge to job creation, social stability and security.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan stated this while delivering the graduation lecture for National Defence College Course 34, titled “Harnessing Industrial Capacity for Inclusive Growth and Regional Stability in Africa.”

He says since the beginning of the industrial revolution in the late 18th century, the world has witnessed remarkable transformations in industry, technology and economic development.

Africa, however, has struggled to keep pace, with its weak industrial base continuing to limit economic growth, job creation and development.

Former President Jonathan notes that africa’s industrial deficit has gone beyond an economic challenge to become a strategic security concern.

He adds that unemployment and limited economic opportunities are creating conditions that can fuel violent extremism, organised crime and irregular migration.

Jonathan stresses that without competitive industries capable of creating jobs, developing local capacity and expanding economic opportunities, efforts to achieve lasting peace, regional stability and inclusive growth across africa will remain severely constrained.