Nollywood actor and comedian Ime Bishop Umoh, popularly known as Okon Lagos, has made an unexpected foray into economic discourse, calling on President Bola Tinubu to leverage the ongoing US-China trade war to attract displaced international brands to Nigeria.
In a post shared on his verified social media platforms, Okon Lagos encouraged the federal government to position Nigeria as a viable alternative manufacturing and distribution hub for companies looking to diversify their operations outside China.
“Dear President Tinubu, now is the time to strike,” the actor wrote. “The US-China trade war is making life hard for many companies. Nigeria can be the new home for these victimised brands—if we play our cards right.”
A Strategic Opportunity
The actor’s comments tap into a growing conversation among economists and policy analysts who believe African countries, particularly Nigeria with its large market and youthful population, could benefit from the global supply chain realignments caused by geopolitical tensions between the United States and China.
Okon Lagos argued that Nigeria must act fast and smart to present itself as an attractive destination by improving ease of doing business, offering tax incentives, and ensuring policy stability.
“Fix power. Improve infrastructure. Reduce red tape. Let the world know Nigeria is open for serious business,” he said.
Public Reaction
While the actor’s comments came as a surprise to some, many praised his foresight and the relevance of his suggestion. Some fans applauded his shift from entertainment to civic commentary, calling it “refreshing” and “bold.”
One user wrote, “Okon Lagos is talking sense. This is what we need—celebrities using their platforms to spark real change.”
Another added, “If the government listens, this could open doors for jobs and industrial growth.”
Economic Context
The US-China trade war, now in its seventh year, has forced numerous American and European brands to consider relocating or diversifying their production lines out of China. Countries in Southeast Asia such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and India have already capitalised on this shift. Okon Lagos is now advocating that Nigeria should follow suit.
His statement also echoes calls by local business leaders who have urged the Tinubu administration to prioritise economic reforms that will make the country more attractive to foreign direct investment.
As Nigeria battles inflation, currency volatility, and unemployment, voices like Okon Lagos’s are helping bring economic issues into the mainstream conversation.
source: lifestyle.thecable.ng
