Patronage of made-in-Nigeria goods to boost manufacturers - Nigeria Minister

Nigeria's Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, has emphasized the need for Nigerians to patronize locally made goods in order to boost the country's manufacturers. Speaking at the 2016 Nigerian Economic Summit, Onu appealed to manufacturers in Lagos State not to give up, highlighting the importance of supporting entrepreneurs by purchasing goods made in Nigeria. Acknowledging the challenges faced by small businesses and manufacturers in the current economic climate, the Minister stressed that government support alone is not sufficient. He emphasized the crucial role of consumer support in driving economic growth and development. The Minister cited examples of countries like Japan, where consistent support for local entrepreneurs led to significant improvements in product quality over time. Onu called for a shift in perception among Nigerian consumers towards prioritizing locally made goods, recognizing the potential for job creation, revenue generation, and poverty reduction. Despite concerns about quality and a historical reliance on imported products, the Minister urged Nigerians to consider the broader economic benefits of supporting local industries.