In a strategic move to promote local manufacturing and strengthen Nigeria’s economy, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing indigenous production through a one-day workshop held in Asaba, Delta State.
The workshop, themed “Home Made Goods: The Future of Nigeria’s Economy,” brought together government officials, industry stakeholders, and business leaders to discuss the importance of prioritizing Nigerian-made products. The event marked a crucial step in the ongoing effort to reduce dependence on imports, stimulate job creation, and enhance economic resilience.
Hon. Tomi Akporoghene Wojuola, Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor and Lead Implementor of the NASENI strategic meeting, emphasized that the forum provided an opportunity for key stakeholders to explore ways of strengthening local production capabilities. He highlighted that fostering a partnership with NASENI would be instrumental in driving technological innovation and sustainable industrial growth in the state.
Speaking at the event, Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, and Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Daniel Odinigie, applauded the initiative. They described the workshop as timely and beneficial, noting that empowering local manufacturers would have a direct impact on economic diversification and job creation.
Delivering a keynote presentation on “NASENI’s Role in Promoting Indigenous Technology and Manufacturing,” Engineer Ifesinachi outlined the significance of local production in building a sustainable and competitive economy.
He identified several key benefits of promoting home-made goods, including:
- Driving economic growth by fostering innovation and industrial development.
- Reducing reliance on imports, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s self-sufficiency.
- Creating employment opportunities and boosting local supply chains.
- Enhancing product quality and global competitiveness through strategic investment in research and technology.
According to Ifesinachi, Nigeria’s industrial future hinges on its ability to scale up local production, improve product quality, and embrace modern manufacturing techniques. He stressed that indigenous technology could serve as a catalyst for infrastructural development, urging both government and private sector players to support the movement.
As part of his recommendations, Ifesinachi called for:
- Incentives for local manufacturers to reduce production costs and enhance competitiveness.
- Lower interest rates on loans to support SMEs in manufacturing.
- Public-private partnerships to expand production and distribution networks.
He emphasized that these steps would not only lower the cost of Nigerian-made goods but also spur innovation, stimulate employment, and position the country as a leader in local manufacturing.
A highlight of the workshop was the interactive breakout session, where participants engaged in discussions on strengthening the local manufacturing industry.
Industry experts, entrepreneurs, researchers, and representatives from regulatory bodies such as the Bank of Industry, Standards Organization of Nigeria, and cooperatives examined challenges such as limited access to funding, poor infrastructure, and stiff competition from imported goods.
The groups explored practical solutions, including:
- Enhancing product branding and marketing strategies to boost demand for local goods.
- Leveraging modern technology to improve efficiency and quality.
- Creating an enabling business environment through government policy interventions.
- Encouraging consumer patriotism by promoting awareness campaigns on the value of buying local.
At the end of the session, each group presented their key findings, sparking a broader conversation on the way forward.
Public affairs analyst Abel Johngold Orheruata, commended Hon. Tomi Akporoghene Wojuola for successfully coordinating the NASENI Strategic Focus Group Meeting in Asaba. He underscored the importance of the discussion in addressing Nigeria’s scientific and technological development gaps.
He also emphasized that the workshop brought together a high-profile delegation of industry leaders, manufacturers, government officials, and financial institutions, all united by a shared vision of elevating Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
The workshop concluded with a strong call to action, urging government agencies, private investors, and the general public to embrace home-grown products. Stakeholders pledged to work collectively to tackle existing barriers and champion policies that promote local production.
With renewed commitment from NASENI and the Delta State Government, there is growing optimism that Made-in-Nigeria products will play a transformative role in shaping the nation’s economic future.