Minister Urges Manufacturers to Embrace Smart Technology and Innovation for Nigeria’s Industrial Growth

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has called on Nigerian manufacturers to adopt advanced technologies, foster innovation, and build strategic partnerships to enhance productivity and economic resilience.

Speaking at the Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/Nigerian Raw Materials (NME/NIRAM) Expo 2025, themed “Accelerating Sustainable Manufacturing through Cutting-Edge Equipment and Technology Solutions,” Nnaji emphasized that embracing technology can significantly reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enable the development of products that align with evolving market demands.

The minister highlighted that innovation and technological advancement are vital drivers of Nigeria’s progress and prosperity. He described the expo as a rallying point for stakeholders to leverage new ideas, smart solutions, and collaborations to stimulate manufacturing growth and create tangible opportunities for Nigerians.

“We must align policies, investments, and innovations to transform plans into actionable results. Countries investing heavily in advanced technology are experiencing rapid growth and job creation. Nigeria must follow suit,” Nnaji stated. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting research and local technological development, urging industries to add value to Nigerian raw materials before export.

Acknowledging the hurdles faced by the manufacturing sector—such as high costs, limited access to finance, and infrastructure deficits—the minister called for collaborative efforts among government, businesses, and communities. “Learning from global success stories and building strong local partnerships are essential. The government is committed to backing manufacturers with effective policies and solutions that foster growth,” he affirmed.

He further emphasized that every policy and investment should create meaningful opportunities for young Nigerians, fostering hope and economic inclusion. The expo aligns with President Ahmed Tinubu’s priorities of economic growth and investment, with a focus on innovation, infrastructure, education, and governance.

Meanwhile, Otunba Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), underscored the expo’s role in exploring opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices. He urged industry players to harness the event’s insights to better meet local demands and position Nigeria competitively in the global market.

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, the Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Bada Ambrose, highlighted the importance of technological adoption for Nigeria’s economic growth. She stressed that the expo offers a vital platform for the nation to chart a path toward manufacturing excellence amid current economic challenges.

Prof. Nnayelugo Ike-Muonso, Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), linked the expo’s theme to Nigeria’s broader industrialization agenda. He pointed out that over 70% of manufacturing inputs are imported, exposing a structural weakness in raw material processing. Nigeria’s abundant resources—minerals, agriculture, and a youthful population—are assets that require strategic coordination, bold implementation, and technological investment to unlock.

He announced the recent commissioning of RMRDC’s Research and Demonstration Plant Complex, a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial reawakening. The government has also approved tax incentives for manufacturers who utilize locally sourced raw materials, including tax credits, duty reliefs, and investment allowances, aimed at stimulating local industry and innovation.

To position Nigeria as an industrial leader, the government plans to reduce reliance on imported raw materials by at least 60% over the next five years, incentivize value addition through technology, and promote industrial hubs around key raw material zones. Greater research-industry collaboration, technology transfer, and SME support are also pivotal strategies.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of MAN, emphasized that the expo underscores the importance of modern technology and local raw material sourcing in transforming Nigeria’s manufacturing landscape. He called on manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices, innovate, and embrace modernization to enhance competitiveness both locally and internationally.

He concluded by encouraging industry stakeholders to collaborate and inspire one another to foster growth, diversify the economy, and uplift Nigeria through technological localization and strategic innovation.