Emmanuel OchayiThe Nigerian government has called on citizens to prioritise Made-in-Nigeria products over imported goods as part of efforts to strengthen the economy.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, made the appeal during a meeting of regional and state coordinators of Made-in-Nigeria products in Abuja on Saturday.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe emphasised that Nigeria’s preference for foreign-made goods is a significant challenge to the country’s economic growth. Speaking at the event, Akume, who was represented by Musiliu Oladunjoye, Director, International Organisation Department of the Office of the SGF, said “This cultural preference for foreign goods is one of the banes setting the nation backward.”
The Federal Government has vowed to change this trend by empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with financial and technical support.
Govt to Inject N198bn Into MSME Growth
As part of its support for Made-in-Nigeria goods, the government is set to deploy N198 billion to fund the development of MSMEs across the country. This move aims to stimulate local production and create more opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs.
The government has also announced that loans to MSMEs have been increased from N1 million to N5 million at a reduced interest rate of 9%. This initiative is expected to enhance the capacity of MSMEs to produce high-quality goods that can compete with imported products.
The SGF noted that these measures are part of efforts to boost local production and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign goods. “We must promote Made-in-Nigeria goods as a path towards economic recovery and growth,” Akume stated.
Made-in-Nigeria Products to Drive Economic Growth
The push for Made-in-Nigeria products goes beyond financial support. The government has established a body to counter the cultural preference for foreign-made goods and encourage the consumption of local products.
The organisation will focus on driving innovation, effective collaboration, and capacity-building. It will also work to improve the quality of Made-in-Nigeria products so they can compete with imported alternatives.
George Nwabueze, the national coordinator of Made-in-Nigeria Goods, described the initiative as more than just a slogan. According to him, it is a strategic movement that can change the trajectory of Nigeria’s economy “Nigerians must take pride in patronising locally produced goods and services,” Nwabueze said.
He added that Nigeria has highly talented entrepreneurs with the skills to produce world-class goods. However, for local products to succeed, there must be efforts to register, standardize, and promote them.
Calls for Sensitisation and Awareness Campaigns
Nwabueze stressed the importance of raising public awareness about the benefits of Made-in-Nigeria goods. He called on the government to launch massive sensitisation campaigns to educate citizens on the economic and social value of supporting local products “We need to create awareness and attract more patronage for Made-in-Nigeria products,” he noted.
According to Nwabueze, promoting local goods will help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports, boost job creation, and contribute to the nation’s economic stability.
The government’s focus on Made-in-Nigeria goods aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to strengthen the local economy. By increasing financial support for MSMEs and encouraging citizens to embrace local products, the government hopes to reduce Nigeria’s trade deficit and drive sustainable economic growth.
With calls from top officials like Akume and Nwabueze, the Made-in-Nigeria initiative is gaining momentum. The government is urging all stakeholders, including citizens, businesses, and policymakers, to play an active role in promoting local products.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
