‘Economic downturn affecting paint industries ‘

High cost of materials for paint production in Nigeria has been ascribed to “tremendous bad economy” under the present Federal Government.

This was an assertion made by a foremost paint manufacturer in Umuahia, Elder Chief Chimezie Bright Nwaiwu, the Managing Director, B-Lux Industries, Nigeria Ltd while speaking with newsmen, stating that the industry never experience such hardship that exist now before.

“Cost of raw materials is high now compared to when Goodluck Jonathan was on seat as the President of Nigeria. Then, a litre of fuel was N97.00 but is now N155.00.

“Then also, a litre of diesel was N85.00 but is now N230.00, then, a litre of kerosene was N65.00 and now costs N235.00”.

He also disclosed “Electricity is most needed in paint production, but is now nothing to write home about”, observing that during the administration of Jonathan, factories use public power supply, while “one hardly see one in a week”.

“In this economy called Nigeria, many things are happening. There is killing everywhere, there is no peace in the land, people are dying daily and large number of kidnappers and job seekers”, he said.

He urged Nigerians to change the present administration at the federal level by obtaining their permanent voter cards and putting same to use “to enable God descend down”, while calling for prayers for God to intercede in what is happening in the country.

In Abia, Nwaiwu said, the state Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu has done “marvellously well, is a devoted Christian, God-fearing and one who feels the cries of the people”, adding that the wife of the governor has also done well by building for the indigent, markets for communities and using her pet project, Vicar Hope Foundation to provide health facilities for Abians.

“If you go to Aba, untouched areas are now touched. Even in Umuahia, the town is witnessing the fruit of his (Ikpeazu) labour”, he said advising however that the state governor should make some changes in his administration by removing some corrupt officials.

“We need God-fearing people in power so as to know how to make the economy favour all and not to export the money to foreign country”, he concluded.