The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has announced that its 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) will focus on driving support for the “Nigeria First” policy, with the goal of boosting local production, deepening value chains, and reshaping the country’s industrial future.
At a press briefing held Monday in Lagos, President of MAN Francis Meshioye, unveiled the theme of this year’s AGM as: “Nigeria First: Prioritizing Patronage of Made-in-Nigeria.” The event is scheduled for October 14–16, 2025, at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.
“This theme reflects our unwavering belief that prioritizing Nigerian-made goods is essential for sustainable development, job creation, and industrial self-reliance,” Meshioye said.
Meshioye also revealed that Africa’s top industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, will headline the AGM as the Distinguished Guest Speaker, highlighting his role as a living example of the “Nigeria First” ideal.
“Dangote’s journey in building a world-class industrial conglomerate spanning cement, sugar, salt, fertiliser, and now oil refining is proof that investing in Nigeria works. His business decisions capture the essence of our theme,” Meshioye noted.
Event Schedule: A 3-Day Celebration of Local Industry
The AGM will span three days of strategic engagements, exhibitions, and high-level dialogues:
- Day One (October 14):
The Opening Ceremony of the Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition will be flagged off at 12 noon by George Akume, CON, Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Over 100 local manufacturers will showcase their products, with thousands of guests expected to visit throughout the event. - Day Two (October 15):
Activities will be dedicated exclusively to MAN members, beginning with the closed-door AGM, followed by a technical panel discussion on “3D Manufacturing, Risk and Enterprise Management,” aimed at equipping manufacturers with practical tools for thriving in today’s economic climate. - Day Three (October 16):
The event culminates in the prestigious Adeola Odutola Lecture and Presidential Luncheon, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will serve as Special Guest of Honour. Aliko Dangote will again address attendees during this high-profile session. Economic ministers, diplomats, and key industry stakeholders will also be in attendance.
Meshioye emphasized that this year’s AGM is not just a gathering of manufacturers, it’s a national call to prioritise local solutions over foreign dependency.
“The ‘Nigeria First’ policy is more than a government directive, it’s a mindset shift. It calls on us to support our own industries, reduce reliance on imports, and place Nigeria at the center of its economic destiny,” he said.
He praised the Federal Government’s decision to mandate MDAs to prioritise local goods and services, describing it as a landmark opportunity to build a self-sufficient economy rooted in national pride and productivity.
“We are confident that this year’s AGM will spark impactful dialogue, forge strong partnerships, and inspire action towards building a Nigeria that produces, consumes, and grows from within.”
About the Author
