By Ayomide Otitoju
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has announced that its 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) will focus on advancing the “Nigeria First” policy as a pathway to economic growth and industrial development.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos on Tuesday, MAN President, Otunba Francis Meshioye, said the AGM, themed “Nigeria First: Prioritizing Patronage of Made in Nigeria,” will underscore the association’s call for increased local production and consumption. The three-day event will hold from October 14–16, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.
Meshioye revealed that Africa’s foremost industrialist and President/CEO of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, will deliver the keynote at the Adeola Odutola Lecture and Presidential Luncheon on the final day. He described Dangote as “an epitome of the Nigeria First spirit,” whose investments in cement, sugar, salt, fertilizer, and oil refining have transformed the nation’s industrial landscape, created jobs, and reduced import dependence.
The AGM will feature a series of high-level engagements. Day one will open with the “Made in Nigeria Exhibition,” expected to attract over 100 exhibitors. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, will cut the ribbon at the ceremony, alongside other dignitaries.
Day two will be dedicated to MAN members, including the formal AGM and a panel discussion on 3D Manufacturing and Risk & Enterprise Management.
The event will climax on October 16 with the 5th Adeola Odutola Lecture/Presidential Luncheon, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, billed as Special Guest of Honour, alongside economic ministers, diplomats, and key stakeholders in the organized private sector.
Meshioye emphasized that the sessions are designed to stimulate critical discussions, forge partnerships, and accelerate the implementation of the Nigeria First policy.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ policy represents a turning point for our nation,” he said. “It aims to foster economic self-reliance, industrialization, and national pride by mandating MDAs to prioritize locally manufactured goods and services. This is more than a directive—it is a call to action to strengthen industries, deepen value chains, and shift Nigeria from a consumer-driven economy to a productive one.”
