From Chuks Onuoha, Umuahia
Low patronage to made-in-Nigerian goods, in preference to foreign products have been observed as a reason for unemployment and closure of many indigenous manufacturing firms all over the country.
A professor of marketing, at Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State (ABSU), Ihegazie Okpara, made this observation while delivering the School’s 31st Inaugural Lecture, held at the School’s auditorium in Uturu, Abia State.
Professor Okpara, lamented that the ominous situation had driven many people out of jobs as it results in shutting down of companies, industries and manufacturing firms. The university don drew a link between consumption and national development, and noted that if Nigerians exhibited the right attitude towards locally-made goods, the industries “would be vibrant, pay their taxes,”as well as give employment to the youths.
He, however, assured that the impact of his lecture would result in a paradigm shift by Nigerians in favour of local products, adding that great economies of Asian states grew because of the nationals’ love and patriotism for their own products.
He similarly urged governments at all levels to match their words with action through re positioning local industries for effective productivity and as well as spend on locally manufactured goods.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of ABSU, Professor Uche Ikonne, expressed joy that the 36-year- old institution had come of age.