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Country 'Will Be Among 20 Leading Economies By 2020'

This Day
Kunle Aderinokun
1 Oct. 2008

Minister of State for Finance, Mr Remi Babalola, yesterday expressed confidence that Nigeria will definitely be in the league of the 20 leading economies of the world by 2020.

Babalola, who spoke to THISDAY via telephone, on the occasion of the 48th Independence Anniversary, said the gap between poverty and prosperity is not as wide as people think.

He said, "transforming from poverty to prosperity is a reality closer than many people think, as basic structures are getting embedded and with clear vision, Nigerian passion and superior leadership, I am more encouraged that the future is bright.

"There is formula for success, we have seen it in China, India , Korea , Singapore and to a lesser extent in Malaysia and Indonesia . Nigerian possibilities and potentials give me fillip to see Nigeria as a member of G20 in 12 years. Be upbeat," he added.

Advising government officials in positions of key responsibilities in the country, Babalola said, "as managers of our various economies, to pursue initiatives aimed at strengthening fiscal responsibility, public procurement and effective management of debts, we must ensure that more resources are allocated to projects that have direct bearing and touch the lives of the common man.

He said the channels we allocate our resource is a major determinant of what beckons our society in the far horizon and philosophizsed that, "we are a blessed nation because we are a free nation. We are a blessed nation because we are a nation that understands there are responsibilities attached to the various offices at all levels of governance in the federation.

"Let us use this golden opportunity to upscale our service delivery and the surest way to do that is to help improve the lot of humanity to the glory of God. It is worthy and a noble venture, he said.

Copyright © 2008 This Day

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May we be strengthened with the ability, willingness and capabilities to be good ambassadors of Nigeria contributing to its uplifting, rather than its detriment. - Cxsm