MAN warns foreign supply dependence could derail Nigeria’s industrial ambitions

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has warned that Nigeria's continued reliance on foreign supply chains could hinder the country's industrial ambitions. Speaking at a news conference in Lagos ahead of the association's 54th Annual General Meeting, MAN President Francis Meshioye called for stronger efforts to reduce dependency on foreign supplies.

Meshioye said geopolitical tensions and global economic disruptions had exposed the risks associated with excessive reliance on external supply chains, highlighting the importance of developing domestic industrial capacity for Nigeria's economic resilience. He emphasized that Nigeria's industrial strategy must account for global economic changes and the vulnerabilities posed by external dependencies.

MAN has long advocated for conditions that enable manufacturers to expand domestic production and compete effectively. Key priorities identified by Meshioye include macroeconomic stability, infrastructure development, affordable long-term finance, a stable foreign exchange environment, and a predictable regulatory framework. Nigeria's National Industrial Policy 2025, launched in April 2026, offers an opportunity to address structural weaknesses hindering industrial growth.

Meshioye noted that the country possesses the resources and capabilities to develop a stronger industrial economy, citing its human capital, entrepreneurial capacity, and power resources. MAN has previously urged the Federal Government to implement annual local content benchmarks for government procurement in sectors such as automobiles, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agro-processing.

The association believes such a framework would prioritize Made-in-Nigeria products and stimulate domestic production. In May, the Federal Government introduced the Nigeria First policy, prohibiting Ministries, Departments, and Agencies from procuring foreign goods and services when local alternatives are available.