# Nigeria's Economic Growth Hinges on Strategic Care Investment, Experts Warn

The path to Nigeria's economic revival might be paved with something unexpected: comprehensive care infrastructure. As Africa's largest economy struggles with persistent challenges, experts are highlighting a critical yet overlooked strategy for sustainable growth.

## The Hidden Economic Catalyst: Care Work

Care work — including childcare, eldercare, and support for people with disabilities — is more than a social necessity. It's an economic game-changer that Nigeria has consistently undervalued.

Economists argue that investing in care sectors can unlock significant economic potential. By creating jobs, enabling workforce participation, and supporting productivity, care infrastructure becomes a powerful economic lever.

## Why Care Matters for Economic Development

### Breaking Workforce Barriers

When quality care services are available, more Nigerians — especially women — can enter and remain in the workforce. This translates directly into increased economic output and household income.

### Job Creation and Skills Development

The care sector itself represents a substantial employment opportunity. Training programs and professional development in care services could generate thousands of meaningful jobs across urban and rural Nigeria.

> "Care work is not a cost, but an investment in our nation's most valuable resource — our people." - Dr. Amina Lawal, Economic Policy Researcher

## Practical Steps for Implementation

Nigerian policymakers must consider:

- Developing national care infrastructure policies

- Creating professional training programs

- Providing financial incentives for care enterprises

- Implementing supportive regulatory frameworks