Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has urged the Federal Government to urgently legislate and implement the proposed “Nigeria First” Policy, describing it as a vital instrument for transforming the nation’s manufacturing landscape and securing sustainable economic growth.
Speaking in Lagos at the 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dangote praised the forum’s theme, “Nigeria First: Prioritizing Made-in-Nigeria,” calling it a timely and strategic rallying cry for national development.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ Policy is not just a slogan but a call to action for sustained development and transformation led by our manufacturers. If implemented effectively, it can boost GDP, reduce import dependence, and generate jobs across the country,” Dangote stated.
He emphasized that a well-executed Nigeria First framework would help Nigeria achieve industrial self-sufficiency and global competitiveness, mirroring the industrial policies that propelled economies like China, India, and the United States.
Dangote lamented that manufacturing still contributes less than 10 percent to Nigeria’s GDP, a stagnation he attributed to inadequate infrastructure, policy inconsistency, high energy costs, foreign exchange volatility, and limited access to finance.
He outlined several strategic priorities for the Nigeria First initiative, including:
Legislation of the Policy with enforceable compliance mechanisms.
Policy stability to foster investor confidence.
Creation of a National Supplier Registry for local manufacturers in government procurement.
Consumer awareness campaigns to promote “Buy Made in Nigeria.”
Incentives for backward integration and local research development.
Dangote also urged government intervention in addressing infrastructure and energy deficits, lowering interest rates for manufacturers, expanding access to funding, and leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance export competitiveness.
Citing the collapse of Nigeria’s once-booming textile industry, which employed over 500,000 people across 180 mills, Dangote warned that unchecked importation and weak industrial policy could continue to cripple local industries.
“Every nation is in a race to improve the living conditions of its citizens. The government has taken some steps that give us a fighting chance. The Nigeria First Policy, if embraced, will place us in a very competitive position. Let’s act,” he urged.
The 53rd MAN AGM gathered industry captains, policymakers, and development experts to chart a sustainable roadmap for industrial revival and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.
By Augustine Idoje
For stories, inquiries, and advert placements, contact [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or visit fasnewsng.com.