24-Hour Economy Will Create Jobs, Boost Local Production and Drive Exports – Abdul Nasser Soglu Alidu

The Chief Programmes Officer of the 24-Hour Economy initiative, Abdul Nasser Soglu Alidu, has described the policy as a major pathway to job creation, industrialisation, increased local production and economic transformation in Ghana.

In an exclusive interview on Kessben Maakye show in Accra, he insisted, the initiative is designed to expand Ghana’s productive capacity, promote exports and generate foreign exchange while strengthening local manufacturing and processing industries.
He explained that the government’s vision goes beyond extending working hours, with a strong focus on building industrial value chains and creating sustainable employment opportunities for Ghanaians.

Highlighting key components of the initiative, including Grow 24, Make 24, Build and Construct 24, Connect 24, Aspire 24 and Show 24, he stressed that the programme seeks to mobilise Ghanaians across various sectors to achieve economic prosperity.

Soglu further explained that the Aspire 24 component focuses on changing the mindset of Ghanaians towards work, productivity and entrepreneurship.
He noted that with a significant proportion of Ghana’s workforce operating in the informal sector, the 24-Hour Economy presents an opportunity to unlock the sector’s potential and accelerate national development.
“The fundamental reason is to create jobs for our local manufacturing and processing sectors,” he stated.

He also emphasised the importance of producing quality and affordable goods locally to encourage domestic consumption, reduce dependence on imports and strengthen Ghanaian businesses.

Responding to concerns about job creation, Soglu maintained that the initiative provides opportunities for businesses to expand their operations, increase production and employ more people.
He further argued that easing inflationary pressures could improve business planning and investment decisions, allowing entrepreneurs to expand their enterprises with greater confidence.

He expressed optimism that the 24-Hour Economy initiative, if fully implemented, could become a major driver of Ghana’s industrial growth, employment creation and long-term economic prosperity.