MAN’s 53rd AGM to Champion “Nigeria First” Policy, Spotlighting Made-in-Nigeria Manufacturing

 The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) is set to use the platform of its 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) to drive dialogue on the “Nigeria First” policy, aimed at prioritizing the patronage of locally made goods and catalyzing industrial growth across the nation.

Under the theme “Nigeria First: Prioritizing Patronage of Made in Nigeria,” this year’s AGM underscores MAN’s steadfast belief that promoting local manufacturing is key to sustainable economic growth, job creation, and national development. The three-day event is scheduled from Tuesday, October 14 to Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

MAN President Otunba Francis Meshioye emphasized the strategic importance of the gathering during a press conference in Lagos. He highlighted that the AGM will serve as a platform for robust discussions, knowledge-sharing, and policy advocacy to ensure the Nigeria First policy achieves tangible outcomes for the country’s industrial sector.

“We are honored to announce Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, President and CEO of the Dangote Group, as our Distinguished Guest Speaker,” Meshioye said. “Dangote epitomizes the Nigeria First ethos. Over decades, he has built one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates, spanning cement, sugar, salt, fertilizers, and oil refining. His investments have created thousands of jobs, transformed Nigeria’s industrial landscape, and reduced import dependence. His presence will inspire critical discussions as we chart the next phase of Nigeria’s industrial growth.”

Three Days of Strategic Engagement:

• Day One: Made in Nigeria Exhibition
  Kicking off at 12 noon, the exhibition will feature over 100 exhibitors showcasing products across multiple sectors. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, will officially cut the ribbon as Guest of Honour. The exhibition aims to raise government and public awareness of the value of locally made products while reinforcing the patriotic message of prioritizing Nigerian goods. Thousands of visitors are expected throughout the three-day event.
• Day Two: MAN Members’ Affairs and Knowledge Sharing
  Day two is reserved for the annual general meeting, followed by a panel discussion on 3D Manufacturing, Risk, and Enterprise Management. The session is designed to educate members on best practices, equip them with actionable strategies for business growth, and enhance awareness of opportunities for thriving within Nigeria’s evolving manufacturing ecosystem.
• Day Three: 5th Adeola Odutola Lecture/Presidential Luncheon
  The event will culminate on Thursday, October 16, with the high-profile lecture featuring Alhaji Aliko Dangote as Distinguished Guest Speaker. The Special Guest of Honour is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, alongside economic ministers, heads of government agencies, diplomatic corps representatives, and leaders from the organized private sector. The lecture and luncheon will not only celebrate industrial achievements but also spotlight opportunities for collaboration between government and the private sector in advancing the Nigeria First agenda.

Reflections on Nigeria First Policy:
Meshioye emphasized that the Nigeria First Policy is a pivotal economic strategy designed to strengthen local industries and reduce import dependency. “This policy is more than a directive—it is a call to action for all sectors of the economy,” he said. “By mandating Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritize locally manufactured goods, the Federal Government has signaled a decisive commitment to industrialization, value-chain development, and economic self-reliance.”

The policy aligns with broader national objectives of transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a productive one. According to Meshioye, successful implementation will enhance job creation, stimulate industrial investments, and foster national pride in homegrown products.

Looking Back and Forward:
Over the years, MAN’s AGMs have been instrumental in fostering dialogue between manufacturers, policymakers, and investors. This year’s 53rd AGM promises to be no different, providing a high-profile platform to spotlight Nigeria’s industrial potential and mobilize stakeholders toward a common goal: prioritizing Nigerian-made goods and services as the cornerstone of national development.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) will use its 53rd AGM to promote the Nigeria First policy, prioritizing Made-in-Nigeria products. Key speakers include Aliko Dangote and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Learn about the three-day event, panels, exhibitions, and industrial insights.