In a passionate and reflective moment for Nigeria’s manufacturing community, Otunba Francis Meshioye, OFR, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), stepped up once again to champion a bold vision for the country’s industrial future. At the association’s headquarters on Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos, he addressed a room filled with journalists, captains of industry, and stakeholders during the pre-event press conference for the 2025 Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment Expo (NME) and the Nigerian Raw Materials Expo (NIRAM).
More than a media meet-up, the gathering became a reflection point—a moment to assess Nigeria’s manufacturing journey and re-ignite the national drive for self-sufficiency through innovation.
Otunba Meshioye did not mince words. With the 2025 theme : “Accelerating Sustainable Manufacturing through Cutting-edge Technology Solutions” — he reminded the audience of the urgency to shift from intentions to implementation.
“This is not just another edition,” he declared. “It is a strategic advantage in a competitive global market. The time to act is now—for our businesses, our communities, our continent, and our planet.”
The 2025 edition, scheduled for August 5–7 at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, is expected to bring together thousands of participants across the entire manufacturing value chain. But for those familiar with last year’s promises—like enhanced support for local fabricators, better industry-research linkages, and infrastructure for raw material processing—many wonder: Has progress been made?
A Call for Continuity, and Accountability
Otunba Meshioye acknowledged these concerns. While commending efforts made over the last year, he admitted that much more remains to be done.
“Our evolution has come through continuous learning and patronage. This time, we want to move beyond promises—we want to show proof,” he said, referencing the “Nigeria First” policy and how it now needs to translate into real industrial partnerships and outcomes.
The President emphasized the need to reduce Nigeria’s overreliance on imported machinery by creating a viable space for locally fabricated equipment, renewable manufacturing systems, and digitally driven production techniques like IoT and AI-based smart factories.
For small manufacturers like Halima Danjuma, who participated in the 2023 Expo with her solar-powered packaging machine prototype, last year was a breakthrough—but it stalled.
“We had conversations, but no follow-through. I’m hoping this year’s promise of innovation and green tech will finally come with business opportunities and partnerships,” she told reporters.
Who Was in the Room
The high-level presence at the press conference underscored the importance of this year’s event. Dignitaries included:
- Prof. Martin Ike Muonso, Representative of the Director General, Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC)
- Dr. Edith Obi, Overseeing Director, States Industrial Extension Services, RMRDC
- Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director General, MAN
- Mrs. Kofo Akinkugbe, OON, CEO, Secure ID
- Prince Felix Oba Okojie, Vice President, Lagos Zone, MAN
- Dr. Segun Alabi, Assistant Director, Corporate Services Division
- Javed Ahmed, Group Head, Public Affairs, African Industries Group
These industry leaders are expected to play active roles in shaping discussions, facilitating partnerships, and showcasing advancements in raw materials science and manufacturing equipment.
New Energy: Women in Manufacturing and R&D Integration
A standout feature of this year’s event is the return of the “Women in Manufacturing” session, a platform celebrating trailblazing women in the sector and encouraging more female participation in an industry long dominated by men.
Meanwhile, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) will host parallel research-based exhibitions and technical sessions, featuring new breakthroughs in sustainable materials and technologies that can plug into Nigeria’s production lines.
Not Just Another Expo
Otunba Meshioye urged members of the press to remain proactive partners in telling the story of industrial rebirth.
“You’ve always been our megaphone. Help us make this event more than just noise. Let’s make it a turning point.”
Participation is free but requires pre-registration, as the event is expected to attract a diverse range of stakeholders—equipment manufacturers, raw material processors, policymakers, development finance institutions, and technology startups.
In many ways, the 2025 edition is a litmus test—not just for the organizers, but for the Nigerian manufacturing sector’s ability to convert vision into value, policy into products, and hope into measurable outcomes.
As the date draws closer, one question looms large: Can Nigeria finally walk the talk of industrial self-reliance?
The answer may begin to unfold on August 5, at Balmoral Hall.
@2025 The Ameh News: All Rights Reserved
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