Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector Faces Headwinds but Demonstrates Resilience, Says MAN President

Nigeria’s manufacturing sector continues to navigate a challenging economic environment, yet remains resilient and optimistic about its potential for growth. This was the key message conveyed by Otunba Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), during his address at the 10th MAN Media Personality of the Year Award and Presidential Media Luncheon

In his speech, Meshioye acknowledged that in 2025, the sector grappled with persistent macroeconomic headwinds, including infrastructural deficits, high energy costs, and regulatory challenges. Despite these hurdles, the industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, with notable improvements in capacity utilisation, export performance, and its contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He noted, “Manufacturers entered the year with cautious optimism and a renewed commitment to proactive advocacy,” citing recent export figures and capacity utilisation as evidence of the sector’s ability to adapt and bounce back amid adversity. Nevertheless, he highlighted ongoing issues such as elevated interest rates and unreliable power supply, which continue to constrain growth and competitiveness.

Looking ahead, Meshioye called for targeted policy measures to unlock Nigeria’s manufacturing potential fully. He emphasised the need for affordable energy, improved infrastructure, and favourable financing options as critical enablers for sustained growth. His remarks underscored the sector’s resilience and its vital role in Nigeria’s economic future.

He also outlined the manufacturing sector’s strategic priorities for 2026. Emphasising the importance of supportive policies, he urged the government to increase capital expenditure, ensure reliable energy supply, expand access to affordable credit, and reduce regulatory burdens that hinder enterprise development.

Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s economic outlook, Meshioye projected a sector growth of 3.1% in 2026, with the potential to contribute over 10% to the nation’s GDP if the right policy environment is fostered. He called on government and industry stakeholders to collaborate through a structured, evidence-based advocacy approach, focusing on infrastructure investments, gas-to-power solutions, and fiscal reforms.

Reaffirming MAN’s commitment to Nigeria’s industrial transformation, Meshioye concluded, “When manufacturing wins, Nigeria wins.”