Africa’s leading industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has called on the Federal Government to urgently legislate and implement the proposed “Nigeria First” Policy to revitalize the nation’s manufacturing sector.
Dangote emphasized that the policy is critical for accelerating economic growth and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
According to Dangote, the policy represents a transformative framework capable of propelling Nigeria toward industrial self-sufficiency and global competitiveness.
He drew parallels with global economic powerhouses such as China, India, and the United States, underscoring the importance of adopting a locally tailored industrial policy to protect and promote domestic industries.
Dangote expressed concern that manufacturing contributes less than 10 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a figure that has stagnated for over a decade.
He attributed this to persistent structural challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, policy inconsistency, high energy costs, foreign exchange volatility, and limited access to finance.
To address these challenges, Dangote urged the government to legislate the Nigeria First Policy by enacting it into law with enforceable compliance mechanisms.
He also emphasized the need for policy stability and long-term commitment, development of a National Supplier Registry, and driving consumer engagement and national pride through a “Buy Made in Nigeria” campaign.
Furthermore, Dangote called on the government to address infrastructure and energy deficits by improving access to affordable power and efficient logistics.
He also advocated for enhanced access to finance by lowering interest rates and expanding funding for manufacturing enterprises.
Dangote stressed that the Nigeria First Policy must transcend political cycles and rhetoric to become a binding national strategy.
He cited the collapse of Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked importation and weak policy support.
The industrialist made this call at the 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), which brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and development partners to chart a path for revitalizing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector and positioning it for long-term, inclusive growth.
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