By Anwar Usman
The Gutenberg Prints Association of Nigeria has explained that Nigeria loses over N200 billion annually on printing books overseas.
Mr. Adekunle Adebambo, the president of the association, said this during a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
According to Adebambo, Nigeria has the capacity to provide all the printing equipment needed in the country, which will in turn promote the much-celebrated industrialisation and growth of the nation.
He called on the federal government and relevant authorities concerned to improve local production capacity and implement policies that would ensure a stronger and more vibrant printing industry in the country.
“There is no year that Nigeria does not spend over to N200billion minimum in printing books abroad.
“Most school authorities have made it mandatory for students in nursery, primary and secondary schools to buy books which mostly produced abroad.
“We are appealing to relevant stakeholders involved to look into this issue. Because we cannot industrialise when we have opportunities and we are not utilising it.”
The president called on the Ministry of Education to partner with Nigerian universities to establish bachelor and postgraduate degree programs in printing technology and management.
He further added that “with government, stakeholders, and Nigerian’s support, GUPPAN believes that we can build an industry that not only serves our country’s needs but also enhances its standing on the global stage.
“The time has come for concerted action to correct past missteps, uphold the standards set by Act 24, 2007, and restore integrity to the Nigerian printing industry.
“We urge the media to support us in highlighting these issues as together we can ensure a future where the Nigerian printing industry stands as a pillar of professionalism, innovation and national pride,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the briefing was organised with the theme” Industrialisation: The Role of Printing Business and Enhanced Printing Profession, Challenges and Solutions.”