Other News
Dangote Urges Swift Legislation of ‘Nigeria First’ Policy to Drive Manufacturing Sector’s Growth
Africa’s leading industrialist, Aliko Dangote has made a passionate plea to the Federal Government to urgently legislate and implement the proposed “Nigeria First” Policy.
He considers it as a critical lever for revitalizing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
The legislation, according to him, holds the keys to accelerating the nation’s economic growth and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
Addressing manufacturers in Lagos at the 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Alh Dangote lauded the theme of this year’s gathering “Nigeria First: Prioritizing Made-in-Nigeria” describing it as a timely and strategic call to action.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ Policy is not just a slogan but a call to action for sustained development and transformation led by our manufacturers,” Dangote stated. “If implemented effectively, it can boost GDP, reduce import dependence, and generate jobs across the country”, Dangote charges
He emphasised that the policy represents a transformative framework capable of propelling Nigeria toward industrial self-sufficiency and global competitiveness. Drawing parallels with global economic powerhouses such as China, India, and the United States, Dangote underscored the importance of adopting a locally tailored industrial policy to protect and promote domestic industries.
Despite Nigeria’s vast potential, Dangote expressed concern that manufacturing contributes less than 10 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a figure that has stagnated for over a decade. He attributed this to persistent structural challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, policy inconsistency, high energy costs, foreign exchange volatility, and limited access to finance.
To address these challenges, Alh Dangote outlined some strategic priorities that manufacturers expect from the Nigeria First framework among which is: to legislate the Nigeria First Policy by enacting it into law with enforceable compliance mechanisms; Ensure Policy Stability and Long-Term Commitment – Avoiding policy reversals to foster investor confidence; Develop a National Supplier Registry–Creating a verified database of local manufacturers for government procurement; Drive Consumer Engagement and National Pride–Launch a robust “Buy Made in Nigeria” campaign and Incentivise Backward Integration-to support companies investing in local raw materials and Research and Development.
As part of the strategy, Dangote also urged the government to address Infrastructure and Energy Deficits by improving access to affordable power and efficient logistics; Enhance Access to Finance by lowering interest rates and expand funding for manufacturing enterprises and Leverage AfCFTA Opportunities by strengthening export capacity to boost regional competitiveness.
The Industrialist also cited the collapse of Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry which employed over 500,000 people across 180 mills at its peak as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked importation and weak policy support.
ALSO READ: Okpebholo Orders Edo Schools to Teach Indigenous Languages
He stressed that the Nigeria First Policy must transcend political cycles and rhetoric to become a binding national strategy. “Every nation is in a race to improve the living conditions of its citizens. The government has taken some steps that give us a fighting chance. The Nigeria First policy, if embraced, will place us in a very competitive position. Let’s act,” he urged.
The 53rd MAN AGM brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and development partners to chart a path for revitalizing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector and positioning it for long-term, inclusive growth.
Photo Caption
Director General, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir; Engr. Ahmed Mansur (Representative of Guest Speaker, Aliko Dangote, GCON, President/CE, Dangote Industries Limited, receiving an award); Hon Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Enoh (Rep. of President of Nigeria); President of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye; at the 53 Annual Meeting of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN)/5th Adetola Odutola Lecture Presidential Luncheon in Lagos on Thursday, October 16, 2025
President Bola Tinubu and Mr. Taiwo Oyedele during his nomination on Wednesday.
The Senior Pastor of Freedom Life International Christian Center, Richard Tochukwu, has declared that gospel music possesses the spiritual capacity to transform Nigeria, describing it as a divine instrument capable of restoring hope and unity in the nation.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists, the cleric said music inspired by God’s Word can positively influence Nigeria’s spiritual and socio-political landscape by promoting peace, comfort and moral revival.
According to him, gospel music goes beyond entertainment and should be seen as a ministry tool for national healing.
ALSO READ: How Pastor Jerry Eze’s NSPPD Became The World’s Third Most-Watched YouTube Channel
“Gospel music is not just sound; it carries power. When songs are inspired by Scripture, they can heal hearts, restore faith and redirect a nation toward righteousness,” he said.
Pastor Tochukwu made the remarks while discussing his latest worship single, “I Want To Pray,” a spiritually reflective song produced by Audio5.
He explained that the track was created to encourage believers to remain steadfast in prayer and maintain consistent fellowship with God.
The song draws inspiration from Luke 18:1, which urges believers to pray always and not lose heart.
A spiritual son of Paul Enenche, Pastor Tochukwu revealed that most of his songs are birthed from deep study of Scripture.
“Sometimes while studying or preaching from a passage, a melody begins to flow. The lyrics are drawn directly from the Word. Our songs are intentional; they carry the same message we preach,” he explained.
Reflecting on his journey, he recounted beginning as a drummer who also sang before discovering what he described as a divine instruction to minister through music.
“I realised that you don’t minister only through preaching. God made me understand that songs are another channel through which His Word can reach people. Every release is backed by Scripture,” he added.
Pastor Tochukwu currently serves in Lagos, combining pastoral leadership with music ministry.
The audio and video for “I Want To Pray” are now available on major digital streaming platforms.
PDP’s Festering Crisis Chases Tambuwal to ADC
$200/barrel Price Likely as Iran Threatens Oil Ships
2026 Poll: Osun Ndigbo Backs Adeleke’s Second-Term Bid
NGX Group, IFC, CSCS and WIMBIZ Convene Leaders to Advance Gender Equality at 2026 Ring the Bell Ceremony
Adeleke on Why he Deserves Second Term
NNPC Secures Tinubu’s Approval for $20bn FID on Bonga Deepwater Project
Trump’s Family Unveils New Cryptocurrency Platform
Reps Recommend 3-year Jail Term For Aviation minister
Dangote Cement Lights Up Benue Host Communities With CSR Initiatives
Senate Denies Receiving Petitions Against Tinubu’s Ambassadorial Nominees
Things To Know About Threads, Zuckerberg’s Twitter-like App
https://shorturl.fm/6jCEU
https://shorturl.fm/M1xjs
https://shorturl.fm/pOIE7
Good info and right to the point. I don’t know if this is actually the best place to ask but do you guys have any ideea where to hire some professional writers? Thanks in advance 🙂
Good write-up, I’m normal visitor of one’s website, maintain up the excellent operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.
I just couldn’t depart your website prior to suggesting that I extremely enjoyed the standard information a person provide for your visitors? Is gonna be back often in order to check up on new posts
Great site. Plenty of useful info here. I am sending it to a few friends ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thank you in your effort!
You can definitely see your skills within the work you write. The sector hopes for more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to mention how they believe. Always follow your heart.
Excellent blog! Do you have any helpful hints for aspiring writers? I’m hoping to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you advise starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m totally confused .. Any recommendations? Bless you!
Great post. I was checking constantly this weblog and I am impressed! Extremely useful info specially the ultimate section 🙂 I handle such information a lot. I used to be looking for this certain info for a very long time. Thank you and best of luck.
you have got an incredible blog right here! would you wish to make some invite posts on my blog?
I’ve recently started a website, the information you offer on this web site has helped me tremendously. Thanks for all of your time & work. “My dear and old country, here we are once again together faced with a heavy trial.” by Charles De Gaulle.
It?¦s truly a great and useful piece of information. I?¦m glad that you simply shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
Nice post. I learn something more challenging on different blogs everyday. It will always be stimulating to read content from other writers and practice a little something from their store. I’d prefer to use some with the content on my blog whether you don’t mind. Natually I’ll give you a link on your web blog. Thanks for sharing.
Awsome blog! I am loving it!! Will be back later to read some more. I am taking your feeds also.
I truly appreciate this post. I have been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thank you again
I like what you guys are up also. Such clever work and reporting! Keep up the excellent works guys I have incorporated you guys to my blogroll. I think it will improve the value of my site 🙂