The Federal Government has called for a bold transition from importing outdated industrial equipment to deploying locally made, modern manufacturing solutions. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/Nigerian Raw Materials Expo in Lagos, Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, emphasized that Nigeria must stop relying on foreign "industrial scrap" if it hopes to become truly competitive in global manufacturing. He stressed that industrial self-sufficiency is key to national development.
Enoh revealed that the manufacturing sector currently contributes less than 10% to Nigeria's GDP, a situation the government is determined to change. Through a new Draft National Industrial Policy, currently under validation, the Federal Government aims to prioritize technology adoption, equipment financing, and energy integration. These efforts, he said, will drive innovation across key industries like agro-processing, textiles, and automotive manufacturing—sectors that offer strong potential for SMEs to thrive.
To support small and medium enterprises, the government plans to launch a Made-in-Nigeria campaign, led by the Pro-Nigeria Secretariat. This initiative will promote locally manufactured machinery through product certification, digital marketplaces, and increased media visibility. The policy framework will also harmonize efforts among key agencies such as the Bank of Industry, NASENI, and NEPZA to provide affordable, smart equipment to grassroots and rural manufacturers.
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The Minister encouraged stakeholders to use the expo as a platform to form strategic partnerships for technology transfer and innovation. He urged Nigerian innovators and manufacturers to explore modular and mobile equipment models that can reach underserved regions. Enoh also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with tertiary institutions to co-develop Nigeria-specific machines and define sustainability as a core aspect of inclusive industrial growth.
President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Francis Meshioye, said the expo is a key opportunity to turn ideas into action by fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. With panel sessions on women in manufacturing, international partnerships, and cutting-edge technology, the three-day expo brought together government agencies, private sector players, and innovation hubs to shape a resilient, inclusive future for Nigerian manufacturing.
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