MAN Kick-Start the 7th Edition of the Nigeria Manufacturing Equipment Expo (NME Expo) & the 9th Nigeria Raw Materials Exposition (NIRAM Expo)

President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye dropped this hint in his welcome address at the opening ceremony of the 2023 7th Edition of the Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment Expo (NME) and 9th Nigeria Raw Materials Expo with the theme: “Future Manufacturing: Building a Sustainable Roadmap to the Industrialization of Nigeria”, holding at the Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, in Lagos, Nigeria.

The President of MAN Otunba Francis Meshioye particularly highlighted the presence of Former Perm Sec, Ministry of Science and technology, Dr Abdullahi Aliyu as the special guest who would delve into the event’s theme. Major sponsors, including Shell Energy, Bank of Industry, Duplo, and Lotus Bank, were also recognized for their commitment to the success of the expo.

Meshioye emphasized the media’s crucial role in disseminating information about the event and expressed confidence that the expo would receive extensive coverage. He noted the significance of the annual marketplace, providing a platform for stakeholders to assess the manufacturing sector’s state and discuss development strategies through initiatives like the Manufacturers Partnership for African Development (mPAD) and Master Class Sessions.

Reflecting on the challenges posed by the global shifts in technology, customer expectations, and social awareness, Meshioye unveiled the theme of the 2023 expo: “Future Manufacturing: Building a Sustainable Roadmap to the Industrialization of Nigeria.” He underscored the expo’s role in bridging information gaps, encouraging local sourcing of raw materials, and aligning with the government’s backward integration program.

Meshioye articulated the vision of a thriving manufacturing future, encompassing efficient production, strong products, loyal customer bases, and advanced technologies. He highlighted the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0 for African manufacturers, emphasizing the continent’s flexibility in overcoming infrastructure challenges.

Addressing broader issues, Meshioye called for sustained efforts to address energy inadequacy and inefficiency, asserting that improved electricity supply is crucial for industrial growth. He urged ministers to establish synergy between trade and industrial policies and proposed the development of a new industrial policy for Nigeria.

Also at the event, the Honourable Minister Federal Ministry of industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Doris Udoka Anite on her keynote address said “The Theme: Future of Manufacturing” emphasizes the need for a renewed focus as well as deliberate attention to the development of the non-oil sector through manufacturing processes. As we are all aware Nigeria has long been dependent on oil as our primary source of revenue putting marginal attention to sustained manufacturing activities.

Manufacturing has the potential to transform our nation’s economy, diversify our revenue sources, and reduce our dependence on oil. The current global economic landscape provides us with unique opportunities to showcase Nigeria’s manufacturing potential and attract local and foreign investments to drive this crucial sector forward.

It is gratifying to note that the future of manufacturing in Nigeria relies on our ability to embrace technological advancements and innovation. We must leverage emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance our manufacturing processes, improve efficiency, and drive productivity. By adopting these cutting-ed technologies, we can boost the competitiveness of our local manufacturers and position Nigeria as a global manufacturing hub.

She said Nigerian government, through my ministry, is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment for manufacturers to flourish. Our commitment extends to the implementation of policies and programs that facilitate ease of doing business, improve access to finance for manufacturers, and enhance infrastructure and logistics to bolster the growth of the manufacturing sector.

As part of this commitment, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment will strengthen collaboration with MAN to implement sector-specific guidelines. This underscores the pivotal role of the manufacturing sector in our overarching strategy for sustainable growth.

In line with the objectives of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, it is essential that we intentionally shift our focus towards non-oil manufacturing sectors such as agriculture, textiles, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. The President has also pledged to allocate N75 billion for 75 manufacturing enterprises to access N1 billion credit at a 9% interest rate per annum. This initiative aims to expedite the transformation of the manufacturing sector.

She concluded her address by thanking MAN for organizing the remarkable event, and she also extend her appreciation to all the exhibitors and participants for their valuable contributions. Let us utilize this platform to network, explore business opportunities, and forge strategic partnerships that will propel the Nigerian manufacturing industry to new

In conclusion, Meshioye expressed gratitude to sponsors, partnering institutions, and the joint committee of MAN and RMRDC for their support. He commended the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria for their unwavering support and invited guests for their presence, envisioning a remarkable transformation in the country’s industrial landscape over the next three days of the expo.