Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has called on the Federal Government to urgently legislate and implement the proposed “Nigeria First” Policy, describing it as key to reviving Nigeria’s struggling manufacturing sector.
Speaking at the 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Lagos, Dangote said the policy could significantly boost GDP growth, create jobs, and reduce import dependence if backed by strong legislative support and consistent implementation.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ Policy is not just a slogan but a call to action for sustained industrial development,” he stated. “If embraced, it will make Nigeria more competitive and self-reliant.”
Dangote urged the government to enact the policy into law, ensure long-term stability, create a national supplier registry, and launch a “Buy Made in Nigeria” campaign to strengthen local production. He also called for improved access to power, cheaper financing, and better logistics to reduce production costs.
Warning against the decline of local industries, he cited the collapse of Nigeria’s once-thriving textile sector as a lesson. He insisted that the Nigeria First Policy must transcend politics and become a binding national strategy to drive inclusive growth.
The MAN AGM brought together industry leaders and policymakers to chart a new course for Nigeria’s manufacturing future.
