Skip to content
ABUJA – The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged the Federal Government to act now. MAN calls for the Nigeria First Policy to become a binding law. The association says this action will significantly boost the nation’s struggling manufacturing sector.
MAN Director-General Segun Ajayi-Kadir explained the need. He stressed that making the procurement policy official law (gazetting it) will ensure it applies across all government levels and the private sector.
He stated clearly: “Make the Nigeria First Policy a binding law. Put strong measures in place for those who violate it.”
Nigeria Manufacturing Sector Faces Severe Challenges
Ajayi-Kadir highlighted several major issues manufacturers currently face.
- High interest rates
- Rising operating costs
- Inconsistent government policies
- Poor infrastructure
- Currency depreciation impacting imports
These problems have caused significant damage. He noted that 767 manufacturing companies shut down operations in 2023 alone. Over 18,000 job losses occurred in 2024.
According to Ajayi-Kadir: “Nigeria must take this chance to transform its manufacturing sector. It must prioritize buying local products. If we do not support our own industries, we will always depend on others.”
MAN Demands Specific Government Actions
To address the crisis, MAN listed urgent actions needed from the government.
- Resolve the $2.4 billion in unsettled forex forwards.
- Reverse the 15% increase in port charges.
- Remove the suspended 4% Free on Board levy on exports.
The association also wants faster progress on the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline project. This project could add 3.6 GW to the national power grid, reducing energy costs for factories.
Ajayi-Kadir concluded forcefully: “A nation without a clear industrial policy is like a ship without direction.”
By Abdullah Korede
