Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has called on manufacturers to embrace smart technologies, innovation, and stronger partnerships to drive productivity and economic growth.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/ Nigerian Raw Materials (NME/NIRAM) Expo in Lagos, Nnaji said advanced technology and local value addition are essential for sustainable industrial development.
“The world is moving fast. Countries investing in new technologies are creating jobs and growing rapidly. Nigeria must do the same,” he said.
With the theme “Accelerating Sustainable Manufacturing Through Cutting-Edge Equipment and Technology Solutions,” the Expo aims to promote innovation, local sourcing, and sustainable practices in the manufacturing sector.
Nnaji noted that Nigeria has the raw materials and talent but needs strategic coordination to unlock its full potential. He stressed the ministry’s commitment to supporting research and promoting the use of local raw materials before export.
“Every policy and investment must create real opportunities for our young people. Our goal is to turn plans into action,” he added.
He acknowledged the challenges facing manufacturers, high production costs, limited finance, and infrastructure gaps — and called for collaboration among government, industry, and communities to solve them.
Focus on Local Sourcing, Tax Incentives
Director General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnayelugo Ike-Muonso, warned that over 70% of Nigeria’s manufacturing inputs are still imported. He urged a shift toward local sourcing and revealed that the Federal Government has approved tax incentives for manufacturers using Nigerian raw materials.
“This isn’t just policy. It’s a fiscal commitment to support local content. Manufacturers using local inputs will pay less tax,” he said.
The new guidelines will offer tax credits, duty waivers, and investment allowances to firms in sectors like agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, green tech, and textiles.
Stakeholders Push for Innovation and Sustainability
President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, said the Expo is a platform to explore partnerships and sustainable strategies that will shape Nigeria’s industrial future.
“We must harness innovation to compete globally and strengthen local manufacturing,” he said.
Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that embracing technology and innovation is key to economic resilience.
“The manufacturing sector is critical for job creation, economic diversification, and inclusive growth,” she added.
MAN Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, also emphasized the role of the Expo in promoting localization of raw materials and advanced production methods.
“Let’s inspire one another and build a future where Nigerian-made products dominate both local and international markets,” he said.
Nigeria’s push for innovation-led, technology-driven manufacturing is gaining momentum, and stakeholders agree: now is the time to act.
@2025 The Ameh News: All Rights Reserved
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