By Merit Ibe,Tokunbo2
Copyright thesun
By Merit Ibe
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has said that though Nigeria’s economy remains challenged, there are bold policy steps taken to reposition it for growth.
President of MAN, Francis Meshioye made the remark during a press conference to herald the association’s 53rd annual general meeting (AGM) billed to hold on 14 to 16 October at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.
Meshioye noted that the theme of the AGM: “Nigeria First: Prioritising Patronage of Made in Nigeria,” underscores the unwavering belief of MAN that prioritising local production is the surest path to sustainable growth, employment generation and national development.
To him, the forthcoming AGM provides an excellent platform to deepen the conversation on the Nigeria First policy, which is part of the policies in place to reposition the growth of the economy and is a decisive strategy to prioritise locally manufactured goods and services.
He said the policy “represents a turning point for our nation, one that seeks to foster economic self-reliance, industrialisation and national pride.
“Nigeria’s economic environment has remained challenging, yet it is marked by renewed hope, as bold policy steps are being taken to reposition the economy for growth. Of particular importance is the introduction of the ‘Nigeria First’ policy, a decisive strategy to prioritise locally manufactured goods and services.
“By mandating all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to patronise made in Nigeria goods and services that can be sourced locally, the Federal Government has signalled its resolve to place local industries at the heart of economic transformation.”
He disclosed that Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s leading industrialist, President/CEO of the Dangote Group, will be the distinguished guest speaker at this year’s AGM.
On the reason for choosing Dangote, Meshioye said: “Aliko Dangote’s story is an epitome of the Nigeria First spirit. He has built one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, spanning cement, sugar, salt, fertilisers and oil refinery. His investment has redefined Nigeria industrial landscape, created thousands of jobs and reduced dependence on imports. His business decisions, over the past decades, capture the very essence of our theme.”
His presence will inspire our discussions as we navigate the next phase of Nigeria industrial growth.
On day one, the opening ceremony of the Made in Nigeria Exhibition which is slated for 12 noon, he said:
“Our distinguished guest of honour, who will be officially cutting the ribbon is the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. We believe his presence will serve the purpose of further attracting the attention of Government to what is Made in Nigeria, in order to achieve that top of the mind awareness and credible support from the highest level of government. Our distinguished guest of honour will be joined by other dignitaries to draw attention to made in Nigeria products and preach the patriotic gospel of patronage of made in Nigeria at the Exhibition. More than 100 exhibitors will be showcasing their products and thousands of visitors are expected during the 3-day period.
“Day two is planned to be strictly MAN members affairs for the annual general meeting. After the AGM, members will be engaged at a value addition panel discussion on 3D Manufacturing & Risk and Enterprise Management. It is a session planned to give credible accounts to members, create awareness and sensitise them adequately on thriving in the business of manufacturing.
“On Day three, the engagement will be climaxing with the 5th edition of the Adeola Odutola Lecture/Presidential luncheon scheduled for Thursday, 16 October, 2025 at 11 am with Alhaji Aliko Dangote as the guest speaker. Our special guest of honour on this occasion is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Other economic ministers, heads of government departments and agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, our colleagues in the Organised Private Sector and other stakeholders will join our members to make the grand finale a huge success,” he said.
