The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) is set to intensify discussions on maximizing the impact of the Nigeria First policy, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and encouraging the consumption of Nigerian-made products and services.
This focus will be central to MAN’s 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for October 16, 2025, in Lagos, under the theme: ‘Nigeria First: Prioritising Patronage of Made in Nigeria’.
Otunba Francis Meshioye, the president of MAN, revealed these plans during a press briefing held recently in Lagos.
He highlighted that the keynote speaker for this year’s AGM will be Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s foremost industrial magnate and the president/CEO of the Dangote Group. Meshioye described Dangote’s journey as a true embodiment of the Nigeria First ethos.
Dangote has established one of the continent’s most expansive conglomerates, with interests spanning cement, sugar, salt, fertilizers, and oil refining. His ventures have significantly transformed Nigeria’s nigeria-migration-programme-with-designated-city/” title=”Japan Launches New Migration Program for …ns, Designates City as Official Hometown for …n Community”>industrial sector, generated thousands of employment opportunities, and curtailed reliance on foreign imports. His strategic business choices over the years perfectly reflect the AGM’s theme, ‘Nigeria First: Prioritising Patronage of Made in Nigeria’. His participation is expected to energize the dialogue as Nigeria charts its next industrial growth trajectory.
Meshioye emphasized that the AGM is meticulously crafted to stimulate meaningful conversations, encourage collaboration, and underscore the critical need to implement the Nigeria First policy effectively. He noted, “Despite the economic challenges Nigeria has faced over the past year, there is a renewed sense of optimism as decisive policy measures are being introduced to reposition the economy for sustainable growth.”
He further explained, “This policy marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria, aiming to promote economic independence, industrial development, and national pride. By directing all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritize locally made goods and services wherever available, the federal government has demonstrated its commitment to placing indigenous industries at the core of the country’s economic transformation.”
Meshioye concluded by stating, “The Nigeria First policy transcends a mere directive; it is a rallying call to fortify our manufacturing base, enhance domestic value chains, and shift Nigeria’s economy from consumption-driven to production-oriented.”
