NASENI lauds Tinubu’s ‘Nigeria First Policy’
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching the “Nigeria First Policy,” describing it as a bold and visionary move toward accelerating Nigeria’s industrial transformation and economic self-reliance. NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, gave the commendation in a statement on […]
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching the “Nigeria First Policy,” describing it as a bold and visionary move toward accelerating Nigeria’s industrial transformation and economic self-reliance.
NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, gave the commendation in a statement on Sunday by the agency’s director of information, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan.
He hailed the policy’s emphasis on patronising locally made goods and indigenous solutions, especially in government procurement.
He noted that the new directive would empower Nigerian entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and innovators, positioning them for sustainable growth.
- Ganduje under fire over one-party state comment
- APC will split soon; Ganduje, others will defect to PDP – Sule Lamido
“With Mr. President’s directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines in favour 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.”
Halilu described the policy as “Forward-thinking and revolutionary,” aligning with NASENI’s long-standing commitment to promoting local content.
He listed NASENI’s innovations — from Nigerian-assembled vehicles and renewable energy systems to smart irrigation tools and electronic devices — as proof of the high-quality output of domestic manufacturers.
The agency also spotlighted its ongoing Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group meetings, held in various states, which seek to gauge consumer perception and increase public confidence in local products.
These stakeholder forums involve experts, regulators, manufacturers, civil society, and entrepreneurs working together to overcome barriers to local patronage.
“This is a call to action for local producers,” Halilu emphasised.
“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 expectations of Nigerian consumers.”
As part of its nationwide drive to foster innovation, NASENI has been actively engaging stakeholders in states such as Katsina, Lagos, Anambra, Delta, Kano, Kaduna, and Ogun. The goal is to identify local manufacturing challenges and promote sustainable, homegrown solutions.
President Tinubu’s “Nigeria First Policy” tasks the BPP with enforcing procurement reforms that prioritise local content and establish a national registry of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment, Halilu declared: “We have seen the capacity and competence of our local manufacturers. They are ready. With the right support, we can achieve true industrialisation powered by Nigerian solutions.”