President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye,  have said in the 7th  edition of the Nigerian Manufacturing and Equipment Expo (NME Expo) and the Nigeria Raw Materials Exposition (NIRAM Expo) which took place on Tuesday, is designed to  lay a major emphasis on doing business and growing manufacturing businesses as well as changing  the face of local manufacturing.

The annual event, known for its dedication to advancing manufacturing excellence, took place at the  Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos from the 21st to 23rd of November.

Manufacturers, investors, industry leaders and stakeholders from across the continent  converged  to explore and harness the potential of the manufacturing sector.

Otunba  Meshioye, who spoke in his welcome address at the opening ceremony of the expo organised  by MAN, in collaboration with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), stated that the exhibition is gearing up to showcase a wealth of investments, trade and partnership opportunities with a special spotlight on deal flow that promises to reshape the African manufacturing landscape.

He appreciated the current administration support for the manufacturing sector particularly in ensuring that the operating environment becomes increasingly conducive to help businesses thrive notwithstanding the fast-growing competitive environment.

The theme of the 2023 EXPO is “Future Manufacturing: Building a Sustainable Roadmap to the Industrialization of Nigeria”.

According to the MAN president,  the theme is informed by the unprecedented rate in which our world is changing in terms of innovative technologies, shifting customer expectations, as well as increasing social awareness of gender equity and restoration of previously marginalized communities.

These major shifts, he said, have a considerable impact on the future of the manufacturing sector.

“If manufacturers can efficiently balance a combination of efficient economies of production and supply chains; strong and reputable products; loyal customers; an established logistics network; as well as reliable on-line business elements, they will be well-positioned in the future to compete favourably in the industrial marketplace” said Meshioye.

“By successfully assimilating advanced technologies into their systems, existing and prospective industrialists can expect to realize even greater revenue and profits from their investments. Improved political stability; growing investment prospects; business-friendly trade agreements; Industry 4.0; enforcement of policies empowering start-up and female manufacturers; in addition to governmental funding solutions, to name a few, are pivotal factors demonstrating a positive and thriving manufacturing future.

“Despite concerns that the continent lacks the requirements for global advancements to capitalise on innovative technological initiatives, African countries are uninhibited by infrastructure legacy challenges, thereby providing a higher degree of flexibility than their developed counterparts.

“Accordingly, Industry 4.0 remains a considerable opportunity for African manufacturers, ultimately giving the continent a cutting edge over the global economy. Beyond manufacturing, all industrial and commercial businesses in the country also suffer from energy inadequacy and inefficiency.

“It is for this reason that investors in the economy will continue to push for sustained effort to bring about significant improvement in the quantum, quality and consistent supply of electricity. The vision of industrialized Nigeria would remain an illusion until we resolve the bidding constraints that affects ease of doing business in the country.

“Honourable Ministers, in going forward, Nigeria at this point in our economic development needs to establish synergy between our trade and industrial policies. It will be a great legacy if this is achieved during your tenure because industry and trade are under your portfolio. In addition, it will also be great if your tenure births a new Industrial Policy for the country.

“In concluding, I wish to appreciate all our sponsors who gave generously to support this year’s edition. MAN and RMRDC remain grateful and thank you most specially. A warm appreciation to all partnering institutions and organizations, I believe the next three days will elicit a remarkable change and improvement in our operations.

“I also appreciate the Joint Committee of MAN and RMRDC for ensuring this event is a success. I applaud your team spirit and all the efforts you put in. Esteemed members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, I appreciate your untiring support to the cause of the Association, as we continue to strive to transform our country to a fully industrialized economy. And to all our invited guests who are here despite their tight schedules, thank you for coming and God bless you all.”

Meshioye appreciated  of  the special guest who  expounded on the theme of the event, Former Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr A.A. Aliyu, who was the keynote speaker.

He also welcome “members of the diplomatic community present as well as our major sponsors namely, Shell Energy, Bank of Industry, Duplo and Lotus Bank for your commitment towards making this event a success. Thank you for your usual cooperation.”