Stakeholders worry over non-patronage of local goods as NASENI set to boost local production

Stakeholders in the manufacturing sector have expressed worry over non-patronage of locally made products while calling for the empowering of local industries and positioning Nigeria’s manufacturing sector for global competitiveness.

Speaking at a focus group meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State organised by National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) with theme: “Made in Nigeria for Everyone” and had government officials, industry leaders, manufacturers, trade associations, technology innovators, and policymakers in attendance.

The stakeholders called for accessible loans for small businesses, ease of registration with government agencies, product packaging, and the general perception of Made-in-Nigeria goods.

The gathering which served as a platform to examine the challenges facing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, highlighting the immense opportunities available to local manufacturers in country, NASENI disclosed the agency’s ongoing efforts to drive innovation in the industrial sector, enhance local manufacturing capabilities, and encourage greater support for homegrown products.

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Ahmed Hamzat, Overseeing Officer/MD of NASENI Oyo State Office, who outlined the agency’s 3-C agenda – Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialisation said engagement was to advance local manufacturing and boost the adoption of Made-in-Nigeria products.

While emphasising the agency’s commitment to policies and partnerships that foster self-reliance and technological growth, he described the gathering as a pivotal step toward promoting Nigerian-made goods.

Ahmed further highlighted NASENI’s dedication to fostering policies and partnerships that drive Nigeria’s self-reliance and technological progress.

He noted that the Focus Group Meeting aimed to address challenges and opportunities in increasing demand for Made-in-Nigeria goods, advancing local production, supporting research, and raising awareness of the value of Nigerian products.

Additionally, he stated that the discussions would help empower small businesses through collaboration while identifying key hurdles and opportunities in the manufacturing sector.

Noting that the meeting reinforced NASENI’s commitment to driving innovation, empowering local industries, and positioning Nigeria’s manufacturing sector for global competitiveness, Ahmed concluded with a clear directive to participants: “Before you import at all, ask NASENI first. Buy Made-in-Nigeria products.”

A.O. Williams, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives in Oyo state, who represented the Permanent Secretary, reaffirmed the Oyo State Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for local manufacturers.

He highlighted the state’s strategic efforts in this regard, including capacity building, improving road networks, and ensuring better market accessibility.

Reiterating the importance of local manufacturing in economic growth, Williams referenced a quote from renowned Nigerian industrialist, Aliko Dangote: “An import-dependent economy is equivalent to importing poverty and exporting jobs.”

He further stressed that strengthening local industries is essential for creating sustainable jobs, enhancing technological innovation, and boosting Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

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He commended NASENI’s role in driving industrial development and urged manufacturers to take full advantage of available government initiatives, partnerships, and funding opportunities to scale their operations.

The session featured an engaging panel discussion by examining the challenges limiting patronage of locally made products and the opportunities within Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

Panelists representing production, research, finance, and policymaking sectors shared insights on advancing Nigeria’s journey toward manufacturing self-reliance. Both the private and public sector representatives contributed valuable perspectives, deepening the dialogue on strengthening Nigeria’s industrial capabilities.

Participants also engaged actively in the conversation, raising questions and contributing to key issues by calling for reorientation about Nigerian products.

The panelists who identified some challenges facing Nigerian products such as durability and availability said “There should be a change of mindset by Nigerians to patronise locally made goods and jettison craze for foreign goods.

While calling for promotion and awareness for the made-in Nigerian goods, stated that manufacturers should also ensure that made-in Nigerian goods meet global standards.