A professor of history at the University of Abuja, Prof. Philip Akpen, has stressed the urgent need for the government to prioritise investment in infrastructure development as a strategic approach to address the ongoing economic challenges faced by the country.

He noted that enhancing transportation networks, energy supply and essential public services could significantly boost economic activity, create jobs and ultimately improve the living standards of citizens.

He made this known at the presentation and launch of his two books, ‘Modernising Northern Nigeria: Infrastructure, Rural Facilities and Urban Amenities, 1960 – 1999’ and ‘Infrastructure Facilities and Urban Amenities in Makurdi: North Central Nigeria 1927 – 1999’, held yesterday at the NAF Conference Centre and Suite, Jahi, Abuja.

Akpen further disclosed that by focusing on infrastructure, the government could not only alleviate the current economic bottleneck but also lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the future.

He stated: “Private Public Partnerships won’t thrive when the government fails to provide an enabling environment for business. The government needs to develop infrastructure in the rural areas. The government needs to develop roads. The government needs to develop railways and build electricity infrastructures.

“Investment in infrastructure will upgrade some of the rural areas to high-profile economic profitability areas. It will also help some of those places that are backward to be very viable economically.

“My book can help improve infrastructure facilities because I have been able to review the programs and policies in the past. I have argued that we must revisit what has already been done in the past to carve out a formidable future.”

In his opening remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Bashir Dalhatu, Wazirin Dutse, disclosed that northern Nigeria is currently having a critical infrastructural deficit.

He, however, urged intellectuals like Philip Akpen to continue calling the government’s attention to the need to invest in infrastructure as a long-term plan to mitigate economic upheavals.

“I greatly appreciate the author’s focus on the critical issues of infrastructure and modernization in northern Nigeria. As Nigeria works to enhance its infrastructure, the challenges become particularly evident in the northern region.

“It is essential to support and encourage individuals and academics who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to highlighting these important aspects of our lives. Their efforts play a vital role in fostering progress and addressing the needs of the community,” he said.