Africa’s economies need to reform their financial systems to unlock industrial growth, Nigeria’s minister says. According to reports from Premium Times and AllAfrica, the minister argues that African countries face persistent barriers in global finance described as a “prejudice premium,” which limits access to affordable capital. The minister calls for urgent reforms intended to improve financial conditions and make funding more available for industrial activities across the continent. The statements link changes in financial systems to broader economic goals, including accelerating industrial development. While the reports focus on the need for reforms and the impact of discriminatory or unfavorable financing terms in international markets, they do not specify particular policy measures, timelines, or countries. Both outlets present the remarks as part of the wider debate on how to strengthen Africa’s ability to finance industrialization and support manufacturing and other productive sectors through better access to investment and credit.