Nigerian manufacturing's future hinges on competitiveness, innovation: MANEG

The future of Nigeria's manufacturing sector hinges on its ability to become competitive, innovative, and globally relevant, according to the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MANEG). These elements, coupled with access to appropriate policies, incentives, and financing, are deemed essential for Nigerian manufacturers to succeed in both African and international export markets.

Mrs. Ruth Owojaiye, the newly appointed Chairman of MANEG and Director of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs at British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN), outlined these priorities during the launch of a 2026/2027 strategic roadmap. The roadmap aims to bolster Nigeria's export competitiveness, accelerate manufacturing growth, and enhance market access for locally produced goods across Africa and the globe.

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Nigeria’s manufacturing future must be defined by competitiveness, innovation and global relevance. To achieve this, Nigerian manufacturers must have access to the right policies, incentives, financing, knowledge and partnerships needed to compete successfully beyond our borders.

Owojaiye emphasized that Nigeria possesses the necessary resources, industrial capacity, and entrepreneurial spirit to become a leading manufacturing hub in Africa. However, achieving this vision requires a deliberate and sustained shift towards export readiness. MANEG's roadmap is built upon four pillars: strengthening strategic engagements, increasing awareness and utilization of export incentives, improving access to export finance, and fostering export capacity development.

A significant focus will be placed on ensuring manufacturers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, are aware of and can effectively utilize available government-backed incentives. MANEG plans to bridge the gap between policy availability and practical business application. Furthermore, the group recognizes the need for stronger connections between manufacturers and export finance providers, as significant investment in technology, production capacity, certifications, packaging, and logistics is required to compete internationally. MANEG will also prioritize capacity-building programs to equip manufacturers with the skills needed to meet global standards.

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An incentive can only create economic value when businesses understand how to access and deploy it effectively. Our objective is to bridge the gap between policy availability and practical business utilisation.