In a bid to ensure sustainable industrial growth where entrepreneurship thrives, Nigerians have been urged to make conscious decisions to buy made-in-Nigeria products to create a brighter future for all and for the unborn generations.
It said this could be achieved if Nigerians make intentional and deliberate choices “to buy Nigerians products, support local industries and invest in our industries, to create jobs and drive growth, while continuously improving the policy environment.”
President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Francis Meshioye, stated this during the 18th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Cross River/Akwa Ibom branch of the association which took place in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
To further boost industrial growth, Meshioye urged governments to “strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms by reinforcing security and engage with host communities, rehabilitate infrastructure by improving road conditions and support uninterrupted production cycles and accelerate independent power partnerships through dedicated stable supply to industrial areas.”
Represented by the Director-General of the association, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, he said MAN has been “continually working to engage with the government to create an environment that supports the growth of the manufacturing sector adding that we urge the Federal Government to give effect to the implementation of the Nigeria First Policy which he said should involve mandatory patronage ofMade-in-Nigeria products by all government Ministries, Departments and Agencies.”
MAN also appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider the genuine cases of manufacturers on the unclaimed forex forwards. “We continue to receive credible complaints with factual and compelling explanations that deserve review and gracious consideration. We would like to assure the Governor of the Central Bank that we are happy to compile these cases for his attention and to seek an opportunity for them to further elucidate on the matter, should it become necessary,’’ he said.
He gave assurance that MAN will continue to provide leadership and advocate for the interest of the manufacturing sector while also urging members to remain “steadfast in the face of prevailing challenges , working together to build a stronger and more resilient manufacturing sector that drives economic growth and development of our country, Nigeria.’’
In his welcome address, Inalegwu Adoga, chairman, MAN, Cross River/Akwa Ibom states branch, said Nigeria could not industrialize without Nigrians patronising Nigerian-made products adding that local manufacturing remained the backbone of job creation , value addition, technology transfer and national competitiveness, because when we buy Nigerian, we strengthen the economy,when we build Nigeria , we secure the future.”
Adoga who is the Managing Director of Champion Breweries noted that both Cross River and Akwa Ibom States have the potential to become manufacturing powerhouses adding that what is required is continued collaboration between the government and industry.
According to him, policies that touch production, logistics,taxation and energy must always involve manufacturers – people who understand the realities on the shop floor.
He urged the government of both states to “continue engaging MAN and the wider Organised Private Sector during the formulation of policies that affect industries adding that manufacturers are ready and willing partners, equipped with the experience, capacity and insight to help shape a more prosperous economy.”
The 18th AGMof of the association featured an award of excellence to a foremost industrialist in the branch, Sunny Jackson Udo who was a one-time chairman of the branch and founder of Devos industries as well as a tour of the Champion Breweries where the Managing Director gave an overview of the growth of the company since its inception in 1976.
