The truth is that neither extreme of full protectionism nor total dependence on imports is a sustainable solution for Nigeria right now. A blunt ban on imports often triggers immediate price hikes and shortages that hurt the poorest citizens most, while relying solely on imports prevents the local industry from ever gaining the scale it needs to compete. The most realistic path is a phased approach where the government targets specific sectors to nurture through infrastructure development, stable power, and easier access to credit before gradually reducing import dependency. By focusing on boosting productivity and easing the cost of doing business rather than just shutting borders, Nigeria can build a competitive local base that provides affordable goods while creating much-needed jobs. It is about creating a supportive environment for local producers to grow naturally, rather than forcing a transition that punishes the consumer in the short term.