By Lucy Ogalue
The Federal Government has described the motor rally organised as part of the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival as a symbol of resilience and growing economic confidence in Nigeria.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, said this at the inauguration of the rally in Abuja on Wednesday.
Bagudu said the rally, which would see the participants drive from Abuja through Kano to Argungu in Kebbi, demonstrated the determination of Nigerians to celebrate their heritage in spite challenges.
“This motor rally, like the festival itself, is a demonstration of the resilience of our people, that we are not going to be intimidated, that we will celebrate what our blessings are,” he said.
He stated that drivers, supported by sponsors, travelling across states to Argungu showed “a Nigeria that is on its march to ensuring that normality is restored, given all the investments in security.”
The minister added that the participation of private sector sponsors and automobile companies was a strong statement of confidence in the nation’s economy.
“This is, in itself, a big statement of support from our private sector, and we must appreciate them,” he said.
Bagudu assured the participating automobile firms of the Federal Government’s support, adding that all the companies involved in the rally were assembling vehicles in Nigeria.
“They are our companies. They are Nigerian companies. And Nigeria will not be shy of supporting them for believing in us,” he said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, represented by the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr Joseph Osanipin, said the rally aligned with the Nigeria First policy.
“Nigeria First policy encourages all of us to patronise Nigeria-made products, and in automobile, this is no different,” she said.
Oduwole noted that all vehicles on display for the rally were assembled in Nigeria and would be driven across diverse terrains to demonstrate their durability and technological advancement.
“We want to use this opportunity to demonstrate to all the ruggedness and the technology available in local assembled vehicles,” she said.
According to her, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is ready to collaborate with ministries and agencies willing to promote made-in-Nigeria goods.
Speaking in his capacity, the NADDC boss described the festival as a fusion of art, culture, innovation and technology that would boost economic activities and promote Nigeria’s automobile industry.
He said:” The council joined the rally to encourage Nigerians to believe in local capabilities and to promote unity across the country.
“Participants will travel from Abuja through Kaduna and Kano to Sokoto and Kebbi, showcasing not only endurance but also safety and national cohesion.
” Beyond its cultural and tourism value, the rally will stimulate the economy, particularly the automotive sector.”
He said the rally would create employment and entertainment opportunities, while generating income through branding, media engagement, hospitality and other commercial activities along the route.
Osanipin added that the rally would also promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage as participants pass through villages and different terrains, exposing communities to the event.
“This race has a lot riding on the economy. Outside the rally side, the automobile industry is driving it as well,” he said.
The Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival is one of Nigeria’s foremost cultural events, attracting participants from within and outside the country. (NAN)
