The federal government has reiterated its commitment to supporting local production as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth and global relevance. Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Special Adviser on Special Duties Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, made this declaration during the Made in Naija Trade Exhibition organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Commerce.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s future prosperity depends on the creativity, innovation, and enterprise of its citizens. “Nothing showcases the pride of a nation more than the craft, creativity, and ideas of its people,” he said, highlighting the role of local production in fueling economic growth and job creation.

The Vice President described the exhibition as more than a showcase, calling it a statement of intent to position Nigerian brands for global recognition. He noted that the nation’s wealth lies not merely in natural resources but in the ability to transform these resources into value-added products, stressing the importance of patronizing locally made goods.

“Every purchase of a Nigerian-made product is an investment in our entrepreneurs, artisans, factory workers, and young graduates shaping the future,” Shettima said. He added that supporting local production strengthens the naira, promotes employment, reduces reliance on global supply chains, and fosters a sustainable middle class.

Shettima also underscored the administration’s ongoing efforts to make Nigeria a manufacturing and innovation hub, including establishing special economic zones, expanding access to finance, reforming ports, and ensuring certification standards meet global benchmarks. He described the exhibition as a declaration of confidence in Nigerian talent and a refusal to let others define the country’s global identity.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, pledged the National Assembly’s support for policies prioritizing Nigerian-made products, praising the exhibition as a timely response to Nigeria’s need for industrial growth and economic self-reliance. He highlighted the Nigeria First Policy, which mandates that government procurement prioritizes local goods, aiming to boost domestic output, reduce imports, and create sustainable employment.

Hon. Ahmed Munir, Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce, said the focus on local content could create over five million new jobs by 2030, noting the importance of substituting key imports with Nigerian-made alternatives to conserve foreign reserves. He projected that non-oil sector growth could contribute an additional five percent to GDP within five years and stressed that Nigerian products should compete globally. Munir affirmed the House’s commitment to industrial growth and economic development through strategic legislation and policy support.