National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has restated its dedication to boosting local manufacturing and driving Nigeria’s industrial growth.
The commitment took center stage at the strategic focus group meeting on Made-in-Nigeria products in Ibadan, Oyo State capital city, where industry leaders, policymakers and entrepreneurs gathered to tackle challenges and explore opportunities in the sector.
With “Made in Nigeria for Everyone” as its theme, the event provided a platform to discuss ways to enhance product quality, tackle production challenges and expand market access for local-made products.
Since its establishment in 1992, NASENI has been playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s industrial and technological growth.
The agency bridges the gap between research and production, driving homegrown innovations that support economic development.
Speaking at the forum, Acting Managing Director of Prototype Engineering Development Institute, a subsidiary of NASENI, Mr. Ahmed Hamzat, highlights the agency’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s industrial base through its 3C agenda: creation, collaboration, and commercialization.
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He noted that NASENI remains dedicated to fostering self-reliance, wealth creation, and job opportunities.
According to Ahmed, by investing in research and development, NASENI provides engineering solutions in critical sectors including agriculture, transportation, construction and power.
He added that, the agency continues to support local manufacturers, ensuring that Nigerian products meet international standards and become competitive on a global scale.
Ahmed said: “We have moved from research to manufacturing, yet many Nigerians are unaware of the quality of work being done. Our products meet global standards, and we need to change the mindset of consumers to support locally made goods.
“If our manufacturers meet the required standards, there is no reason Nigerians won’t patronise them.”
He further emphasized the need for policies that provide financial support, improve access to technology and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“This meeting aims to raise awareness about the benefits of local production, encourage collaboration, and set higher quality standards to ensure Nigerian products can compete effectively in the market”, the NASENI boss said.
A panel discussion featuring industry experts, policymakers and business leaders examined key issues affecting local manufacturing.
The talks covered the high cost of production, access to funding and strategies for ensuring that local products meet global standards.
The panelists stressed that achieving industrial success requires strong policies, better financing options, and incentives for manufacturers who prioritize local production.
They also noted the importance of business registration and affiliation with recognized organizations to attract investors and benefit from government subsidies for locally sourced raw materials.
In her remarks, an Assistant Director with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Oyo State, Ibadan, Mrs. Ogunronbi Olanike highlighted the agency’s efforts to support small businesses through its Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSMC) skill initiative.
She explained that NAFDAC had streamlined documentation requirements to make product registration easier and had intensified efforts against counterfeit goods through open-market raids, surveillance and routine enforcement.
A Senior Standards engineer with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Oluwadare Bolumole, representing the State Coordinator noted that many Nigerian products meet required standards but suffer from a lack of awareness.
He said: “The issue is not quality but perception. Nigerians must take responsibility for celebrating and promoting their own brands.”