In a week-long event, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka Anite, visited several companies in Lagos and Ogun State to express the government’s support for the growth of the manufacturing sector in the country. The tour aimed to bolster the private sector as a crucial driver for job creation and economic development.
During her visit to Ogun State, Dr Anite had a strategic meeting with Governor Prince Dr Dapo Abiodun, where she emphasized the federal government’s commitment to supporting the state and stressed the importance of gathering feedback to enhance industrialization nationwide.
Throughout her tour, Dr Anite visited various industrial entities, including TGI Group, African Foundries Limited, and Land Craft Industries Limited, highlighting the significance of the steel industry as a core component of economic growth. At Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, she commissioned the new factory extension for West African Cubes (WACUB) Limited, noting that the project would significantly increase GDP and create jobs for citizens.
Moreover, Dr Anite encouraged collaboration among local entrepreneurs during her visits to African Foundries Limited and Land Craft Industries Limited. She acknowledged the infrastructural and security challenges faced by these businesses and promised federal support to address other impediments.
The third day of the tour featured a visit to Beloxxi Industries, where the minister expressed her admiration for the youth development programs implemented by the company. She emphasized the importance of other manufacturers engaging in similar initiatives, as they play a pivotal role in curbing vices associated with young people.
The minister’s itinerary also included stops at major players in the food industry such as Unilever Plc in Agbara, GreenTech Industries Limited, and GB Africa GB Foods Manufacturing Nigeria Limited. Dr Anite listened attentively to their challenges and reassured them of the government’s dedication to economic growth and job creation.
Concluding her tour, Dr Anite expressed her gratitude to the companies she visited, acknowledging their challenges and reaffirming her commitment to sector-wide growth. Governor Abiodun welcomed the minister’s visit, highlighting his vision of leveraging Ogun State’s proximity to Lagos to foster a conducive environment for public-private partnerships. He mentioned the state’s holistic approach, captured in the ISEYA acronym, which represents infrastructure, social welfare, education, youth empowerment, and agriculture. This aligns with the federal government’s objectives.
The visit of the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka Anite, to various companies in Lagos and Ogun State underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the manufacturing sector and boosting the private sector as a key driver for job creation and economic development. Through strategic meetings, factory commissions, and interactions with key stakeholders, Dr Anite highlighted the federal government’s dedication to enhancing nationwide industrialization. Her tour aimed to address challenges faced by manufacturers, encourage collaboration among local entrepreneurs, and promote youth development programs for a brighter economic future. With the government’s commitment and continuous efforts, the manufacturing sector in Nigeria can thrive and contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth and job creation.
