The federal government said it has spent about N100 billion on school books. Minister of Information Labaran Maku said this at 52nd Anniversary Lecture organised by the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers (CIPPON) in Lagos. He said this was exclusive of other printing products.
He emphasized the need for the development of the nation’s printing sector, saying it will prevent perennial capital flight and keep trillions of naira within the nation’s economy.

Maku, who was represented by the ministry’s Director of Publications, Mr. Olufela Oshunbiyi, said there was the need to assist the printing industry with “a deliberate soft loan policy” by the Bank of Industry to stimulate investment in the sector.

He added that a National Printing Industry Fund could also be created for easy access by investors.

He said: “I believe the EFCC and ICPC should have and demonstrate greater interest in the coordination and development of the nation’s printing industry in order to enhance and catalyse the ongoing fight against corruption in Nigeria.”

Also speaking, Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom, said his ministry’s new strategy was to pursue a policy framework that would mobilise foreign direct and domestic investments for growth in the critical sectors, including the printing industry.

Represented by Steven Amase, the junior Minister said government is coming up with an option of first refusal to indigenous companies in any local billing.

According to him, a bill to this effect is already at the National Assembly, adding that when passed, members of CIPPON stand to benefit immensely from it.
http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/index.php/business/179923-fg-spends-n100bn-on-school-books