The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for a collaborative effort to ensure the effective and sustainable implementation of the ‘Nigeria First’ policy.
This initiative aims to prioritize local industries and promote economic growth.
The director-general of the Association, Segun Ajayi-Kadir said “this initiative is a welcome development in the right direction. It is a cheering news and long-awaited relief to resilient Nigerian manufacturers, who, despite the tough economic environment, have demonstrated enduring faith in the potential greatness of the Nigerian economy.”
He stated that “we see this initiative as a true and definite demonstration of the government’s commitment to promoting local industries, boosting economic growth, and creating jobs for Nigerians. By giving preference to locally produced goods and services, we can stimulate demand, increase capacity utilisation, and attract investments into the manufacturing sector.”
He added, “MAN believes that this policy will have a multiplier effect on the economy, leading to increased economic activity, improved GDP growth, and enhanced competitiveness of Nigerian industries.”
Furthermore, he said, from an earlier survey, the effective implementation of such an initiative as should be stipulated in the consequential executive order would scale investments and potentially boost GDP by 56 per cent, reduce unemployment by 37 per cent and increase firms’ willingness to employ from 1.5 per cent to 22.6 per cent.
Ajayi-Kadir further stressed the need for all tiers of government, private sector entities, and individuals to support this initiative by patronizing made-in-Nigeria goods and services, saying that “this is with a special focus on uniformed government agencies and institutions (including the military and police), the legislature and quite importantly, the Presidency. All government contracts should prioritise the patronage of made in Nigeria materials. So, the government needs to consult with manufacturers on the way forward to achieve effective and efficient implementation.”
He pointed out that the new directive is long overdue, and the government, being the biggest spender, would do well to lead by example, adding that this will certainly send the right signals and raise consumer confidence in made in Nigeria products.
