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The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has harped on the need for manufacturers to embrace digital innovation, invest in new technologies, and upskill their workforce for greater productivity, quality products and competitiveness.
On the other hand, the Association urged the Federal and State Governments to give effect to the implementation of the Nigeria First Policy, which should involve mandatory patronage of Made-in-Nigeria products by all government MDAs as well as the legislature and judiciary across all levels of Government.
Francis Meshionye, president of MAN in his address at the 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Edo/Delta States’ Chapter of the association, held in Asaba, Tuesday with the theme, “Enhancing the Nigerian Manufacturing Landscape through Digital Innovation'”, stated: “Digital innovation is no longer a choice but a necessity for our sector’s survival and growth. It is the key to unlocking our competitiveness, improving productivity, and increasing our contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)”.
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Digital innovation is no longer a choice, but a necessity for our sector’s survival and growth. It is the key to unlocking our competitiveness, improving productivity, and increasing our contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“The adoption of technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) can help us achieve these goals. However, we also face challenges. The infrastructure deficit, access to finance, and skills gap are just a few of the hurdles we must overcome. The high cost of energy, poor transportation networks, and inadequate access to credit are some of the factors that continue to hinder our growth. But I am confident that together, we can address these challenges.
“The Federal Government has shown commitment to supporting the manufacturing sector, and I applaud the recent initiatives aimed at improving the business environment. The National Industrial Policy, the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan, and the AfCFTA agreement are some of the initiatives that provide a framework for our sector’s growth”, he said.
He urged them to collaborate with the Government, academia, and other stakeholders to drive innovation and growth as well as prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility their operations, recognising the importance of protecting this planet for future generations.
Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Trade and Investment through Jude Ocheli, a deputy director, said that “Presently, the Delta State Govt is collaborating with Bank of Industry (BOI) on a N1 billion programme to assist industrialists in the State.
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Also, the State Government is about passing a law on Industrial Safety to enhance industrialization as well to ensure those who work in the industrial sector work safely – that is to safeguard the materials and human beings as well. That bill is presently in the House of Assembly and awaiting passage”, he said.
Earlier, Ehizogie Osadolor, Cqhairman of the Edo/Delta State Chapter, in his address, had highlighted the challenges of digital technology in the sector including lack of awareness and understanding, limited access to technology infrastructure, resistance to change, stating that by tackling the challenges squarely, the manufacturing industries could unlock the full potential of digital technologies that will drive innovation in their respective industries.
He also enumerated the concerns of manufacturing in the States, including high electricity tariff, high exchange rate high lending interest rates, multiple taxes and levies, low patronage of made-in-Nigeria products, and expressed confidence that with the political will and the right policies by government, these issues can be resolved without delay.
