**Time for Nigeria to Ditch the Raw Material Trap** Imagine a future where Nigeria's vast natural resources are transformed into valuable goods and services, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. Sounds like a utopian dream? Maybe not for long. At a recent forum in Cape Town, South Africa, business mogul Abdul Samad Rabiu, founder of BUA Group, ignited a vital conversation about Africa's development trajectory. Rabiu, a Nigerian entrepreneur, boldly challenged governments and investors to rethink the continent's approach to economic development. He pointed out that for far too long, Africa has been plagued by the export of raw materials, with little value added to the products. This model has led to a vicious cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. As a result, Africa's potential remains largely untapped, and its people continue to suffer from the consequences. So, what's the alternative? Rabiu advocates for a shift towards industrial processing, where African countries can add value to their raw materials, transforming them into finished goods. This transformation, he argues, will not only create jobs and stimulate economic growth but also enhance the continent's global competitiveness. By doing so, Africa can break out of its raw material trap and take its rightful place on the world stage. The implications of this shift are profound. With industrial processing, Nigeria and other African countries can reduce their reliance on imported goods, boost their manufacturing capabilities, and increase their exports of finished products. This, in turn, will lead to increased revenue, improved living standards, and a more diversified economy. Rabiu's call to action is a clarion call to governments and investors to prioritize industrial transformation over the export of raw materials. It's a wake-up call to harness Africa's potential and unlock its true economic might. As Nigeria and other African countries embark on this journey, the possibilities are endless. With the right policies and investments, Africa can become a major player in global trade, and its people can reap the rewards of a more prosperous future. The question is: are we ready to seize this opportunity?