The inability of governments at various levels to exploit the abundant human and natural resources of Nigeria and channel same for national development has been identified as a major factor responsible for the slow growth of the economy.

The Federal University of Technology, Akure Muslim Graduates Association (FUTAMGA), which stated this in a communiqué issued after its national conference held in the Ondo State capital, therefore called for a change of orientation for the country to attain greatness.

In his welcome address, National Chairman of the association, Prof Buliaminu Kareem said the choice of the conference theme, ‘Economic Diversification: Cutting Edge Means to National Development’, was intended, “to open the eyes of policy makers and individuals on the need to exploit in the right direction, the abundant natural and human resources available in our country for economic growth.”
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According to Kareem, a professor of Engineering at FUTA, “concentration on revenues from oil and gas sector as the only means of economic drive has brought recession to the country’s economy.

“The commodity (crude oil) today suffers a steady low price in the global market, hence, yields low revenue for the nation. Vandalism of oil installations and pipelines in the Niger Delta area by the militants, in recent times, has worsened the situation.

“Besides are mismanagement and corruption that have eaten deep into the fabrics of some government operations. By taking corruption out of place, diversification of the economy through investments in agriculture, solid minerals, technology, among other sectors besides oil and gas, will do this country good in revamping the economy in the shortest possible time.

“Provision of stable electricity, regular water supply and good roads by government will be a catalyst for rapid economic development.”
The university don however charged his colleagues to, “key into the ‘change’ mantra of the present government by embracing ‘change begins with me’ campaign” adding that positive contributions from the academics will speed the process of development.

According to him: “Our positive contributions will add to the speed of achieving new direction of corruption-free and secured society. By this, investors will be attracted and Nigeria will soon be competing favourably with the league of industrialized nations of the world.”

Kareem also disclosed that FUTAMGA had, in the last one year, embarked on several developmental projects within the FUTA campus as well as providing assistance for students in their academic pursuits.

He said: “Last year’s conference witnessed flag-off of green campus (tree planting) project for the university. Trees were planted and they are vegetating well. Best males and females middle-level and graduating Muslim students of the university were given scholarship awards.”