The Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, has pledged continuous collaboration between the Federal Government and industry players to achieve Nigeria’s industrialisation goals and spur rapid economic development.
Enoh pledged on Wednesday in Lagos, during his visit to Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, as part of a three-day industrial tour to some selected companies in the southwest region.
He said that given the kind of challenges present to the manufacturing sector, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration would continue to provide support to drive manufacturing operations.
He said that the government had put in place various incentives to lessen the challenges of doing business and would continue to encourage those still in operation to drive their growth and expansion.
According to him, the ministry will continue to push for the consumption of made-in Nigerian goods and services and ensure that the highest quality of products are produced in the country.
“There is no Nigerian that is not dealing with Berger Paints’ products at different levels and this is a testament to the quality of its products.
“We commend the resilience of Berger Paints in an economy where a lot of companies are closing shop, and the goal of the government is to lessen the challenges of doing business in Nigeria.
“While the Federal Government is pushing for made-in-Nigeria goods and services, it is also pushing for quality goods and services at the same time,” he said.
The minister revealed the government’s plan to set up an Industrial Revolution Work Group comprising representatives of different sectors, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
He said this was part of the strategy to implement the eight-point agenda of the Federal Government.
Mrs Alaba Fagun, Managing Director, Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, called for the Federal Government’s recognition of local manufacturers in critical industries.
Fagun said that the minister’s presence underscored the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration with industry stakeholders in advancing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
She also called for the government’s support in facilitating their recommendations to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board.
She said that the company remained at the forefront of innovation, quality, and sustainability in its industry, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and industrial development.
She said that its products met and exceeded international standards, with investments in state-of-the-art production technology and coatings developed to international specifications.
The Berger MD, however, said that despite meeting rigorous standards, the company’s penetration of key sectors, including the multinational oil and gas industry, remained a challenge.
She said that the significant challenges experienced required urgent government intervention to ensure a level playing field for local manufacturers.
“Imported paints, often subsidised in their countries of origin, continue to flood the Nigerian market, making it difficult for local manufacturers to compete.
“We propose an increase in import duties on finished paint products by at least 50 percent to encourage patronage of locally made alternatives.
“Additionally, there is a persistent perception that foreign products are superior, even when our products meet or exceed these standards.
“We urge the government to intensify awareness campaigns that promote locally manufactured goods,” she said.
Fagun also appealed for a reduction in import duties on essential raw materials not locally produced, while companies maximised local sourcing.
She said this would lower production costs and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian-made paints.
“We urge the government to further streamline processes and policies that enhance ease of doing business, allowing manufacturers to focus on growth and innovation.
“We seek government’s support in providing low-interest loans, grants, and subsidies to enable expansion and technological advancement.
“The proliferation of adulterated and substandard paints in the market threatens consumer safety and undermines reputable manufacturers.
“We urge the government to strengthen enforcement measures and ensure stricter regulatory compliance to protect consumers and maintain industry standards,” she said.
