In a bold vision for Nigeria's economic future, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Leye Kupoluyi is championing a strategic roadmap to leverage manufacturing and youth-focused businesses for national growth.

Kupoluyi sees Nigeria's recent 3.98 percent GDP growth not just as a statistic, but as a promising signal of potential economic renewal. "I liken it to seeing the clouds gather after a long dry season," he explains, emphasizing that while immediate benefits might not be apparent, systemic changes are brewing.

The government's recent reforms, including unifying foreign exchange mechanisms and eliminating oil subsidies, have laid groundwork for potential economic transformation. Kupoluyi argues that to truly democratize economic progress, the federal government must prioritize local manufacturing by ensuring at least 30 percent of government procurement comes from domestic producers.

Critical to this vision is providing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with essential credit access and infrastructure support. "Broadband penetration is as vital for economic growth as agriculture, security, and food production," Kupoluyi asserts, highlighting the need for comprehensive technological infrastructure that extends beyond urban centers.

By leveraging frameworks like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and the African Continental Free Trade Area, Nigeria can position itself as a regional economic powerhouse. The strategy involves not just internal development, but creating robust export opportunities for local manufacturers.

Transparency and data accuracy will be key to maintaining public confidence. Kupoluyi advocates for open economic reporting, recognizing that Nigeria's young entrepreneurs require reliable information to drive business innovation. With Africa's largest population as a potential advantage, the path forward requires collaborative effort between government and private sector.

As Nigeria stands at an economic crossroads, Kupoluyi's vision represents more than policy—it's a blueprint for inclusive, sustainable growth that could transform millions of lives.