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By Daniel Adaji
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has declared Nigeria ready to embark on a homegrown industrial revolution, following President Bola Tinubu’s directive prioritizing local content in government procurement.
Olusegun Ayeoyenikan
Director of Information, NASENI disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, hailed the President’s “Nigeria First Policy” as a strategic move to boost indigenous innovation, create jobs, and fast-track the country’s economic transformation.
“With Mr. President’s directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines in favor of local suppliers, we anticipate a significant increase in patronage of Nigerian-made products,” Halilu stated.
“Government is a major buyer of goods and services, and this move will translate into increased demand across key sectors,” he added.
Describing the policy as “forward-thinking and revolutionary,” Halilu stressed that NASENI had already laid the groundwork for such an initiative through its years of investment in research, manufacturing, and engineering infrastructure.
“We are determined to be at the forefront of implementing the President’s vision,” he said.
He pointed to NASENI-developed products — including locally assembled vehicles, energy systems, smart irrigation tools, and electronic devices — as proof that Nigerian innovation is ready for the spotlight. According to him, the agency’s efforts reflect the high quality and competitiveness of local manufacturing.
NASENI has also been organizing “Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group” meetings nationwide to galvanize support for local industries and understand consumer behavior.
These forums bring together stakeholders such as manufacturers, regulators, entrepreneurs, and civil society groups to examine the challenges hindering local patronage and propose practical solutions.
“This is also a call to action for local producers. It is not enough to enjoy policy support, quality and standards must never be compromised. We must deliver products that compete favourably with imports and meet the needs of Nigerian consumers,” he said.
As the government moves to enforce procurement reforms through the BPP, including the creation of a register of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers, NASENI has reaffirmed its commitment to lead the transition.
“We have seen the capacity and competence of our local manufacturers. They are ready. With the right support, we can achieve true industrialization powered by Nigerian solutions,” Halilu stated.
NASENI, which is mandated to develop and sustain the nation’s science and engineering base, has recently intensified engagements across several states including Lagos, Kano, Anambra, Ogun, and Delta, as part of its strategy to promote innovation and drive the adoption of homegrown technologies.
President Tinubu’s directive is seen as a significant shift in Nigeria’s economic planning — signaling stronger backing for domestic production and a step toward self-reliance in key sectors.