Lagos (Nigeria): The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for greater commitment to the Nigeria First policy to enhance absolute sector competitiveness, expand local production, and drive sustainable economic growth and development.
Mr Francis Meshioye, President of MAN, made the call on Tuesday in Lagos during a news conference ahead of the association’s 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for October 14-16.
Meshioye stated that the Nigeria First Policy symbolised a turning point for the nation, as it sought to bolster economic self-reliance, industrialisation, and national pride.
He described the policy as a carefully designed strategy to prioritise locally manufactured goods and services.
According to him, despite the economic challenges witnessed in recent years, Nigeria still has reasons to hold onto renewed hope.
He stressed that only through coordinated action, sustained investment, and strong accountability could Nigeria unlock the full potential of its manufacturing industry.
Addressing questions on whether Nigeria had achieved its manufacturing targets as it marks 65 years of independence, Meshioye said the policy, if fully implemented, would lead to industrialisation.
He added that such implementation would stimulate industries, trigger a multiplier effect down the value chain, and boost economic opportunities.
“Unstable Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth over the years is tied to low industrialisation, but stronger industrial growth would stabilise and expand the economy.
“A predictable growth pattern would benefit not only manufacturers but also households and the wider Nigerian society.
“We believe that if it is properly implemented, we are talking about the full industrialisation of Nigeria,” he said.
Meshioye confirmed that Aliko Dangote would deliver the keynote address at the upcoming meeting.
He added that the event would provide a platform for dialogue on how to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial future.
In the same vein, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadri, Director-General of MAN, expressed optimism that the policy would not only transform job creation but also the broader economic trajectory.
He reiterated that MAN’s overarching goal was to help Nigeria achieve manufacturing sovereignty under the Nigeria First framework.
He urged media organisations to support the idea by keeping it in public discourse up to and beyond the AGM.