By Charles Okonji
Stakeholders in the Non-Metallic and Mineral Products, a Sub-Sector of the Manufactures Association of Nigeria (MAN), has appealed to Federal Government for support, as the value in non-metallic mineral products is much more than the hydrocarbon combined(Crude Oil).
This appeal was made at the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the in Lagos, with theme, “Exploring New Frontiers: Maximizing the Non-Metallic Industry for Diversification.”
The Association called on the government relevant Agencies to create enabling environment for smooth operations for both local and foreign investors.
According to the Guest Speaker, Chief Executive Officer(CEO), BAA Consult, Dr. Biodun Adedipe, the investment requirements in the sector are not as steep as those for exploration and production of non-metallic minerals.
Adedipe noted that unlocking the opportunity therein can bring sustainable diversification of the Nigerian economy, especially it’s external sector , within a short space of 5 years.
On his part, the Chairman, Non-Metallic and Mineral Products Sectoral group of Manufacturers MAN, Mr. Afam Mallinson Ukatu, pointed out that the industry, has shown resilience, and with pragmatic solutions, adding that it must be prepared to compete both locally and across the continent.
Ukatu averred that together, they can drive the sector toward greater achievements and ensure competitiveness on a global scale.
He commended the leadership of the MAN under the President, Otunba Francis Meshioye, whose unwavering dedication has significantly strengthened the advocacy efforts of the association, thanking the Director General, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, for his continued guidance and support provided by the MAN secretariat.
“Your leadership has been instrumental in driving our collective vision, and on behalf of the group, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principles and goals of the Association.
“I would also like to sincerely appreciate our distinguished guest speaker, Dr. Biodun Adedipe, Founder and CEO of BAA Consult, for accepting our invitation despite your very demanding schedule, even when slightly rescheduled this event. We are confident that your wealth of knowledge and insights will unlock hidden opportunities within our sector and inspire innovative approaches that will propel us toward maximizing the vast potentials that lie within the non-metallic industry.
“This year’s theme, “Exploring New Frontiers: Maximizing the Non-Metallic Industry for Diversification,” speaks to the immense untapped opportunities within our sector. Innovation, technology, and sustainability are key drivers of growth, and as the government shifts focus toward economic diversification, our industry stands poised to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s future development. We eagerly anticipate the ideas and strategies that will emerge from today’s discussions, particularly on global trends that can drive transformation in our industry.
“Our sector is a critical contributor to national development, especially in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, currently estimated at 28 million. This gap presents a significant opportunity for members in the production of essential materials needed to close the housing shortfall. We must align our efforts with national strategies to help overcome this challenge, a task we believe today’s deliberations will greatly contribute to.
“Despite the various obstacles we face, ranging from infrastructure deficits and regulatory burdens to the threat of substandard imports, we remain resolute. I want to thank our members for their unwavering support to the outgoing executives and encourage you to extend the same commitment to the incoming team as we continue to elevate our sector and the manufacturing industry at large,” he added.
In his remarks, the Director -General, MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, who was represented by Mr Ambrose Oruche, Director Special Purpose Vehicle Division, also commended Chairman of this sector, Mr. Ukatu, and his dedicated team, who under his exemplary leadership, has received renewed vigor and direction, stressing that they owe much of today’s success to their efforts.
In his own words o, “Your dedication and continued commitment to the development and success of this sector, even in the face of ongoing economic challenges, is truly commendable. It is your resilience and innovation that keeps our sector thriving and our nation’s industrial landscape evolving.
“The newly elected Chariman, Mr. Javed Ahmed and his team that would take over from Mr. Afam Mallinson, who sacrificed his time, and resources in leading this team for the past four years; We expect more to be done towards ensuring a more robust participation of member companies under this sector, particularly in driving advocacies for the benefit of all. Your sector, we believe is receiving more attention in terms of creative and innovative manufactured products.
“The Annual General Meeting is more than just a statutory requirement, it is a moment to pause and reflect. It offers us a unique platform to review the achievements of the past year, address the challenges we’ve faced, and reaffirm our collective commitment to fostering a conducive and profitable environment for all our member-companies. MAN, as always, stands at the forefront of advocating for policies that enable the growth and sustainability of this vital sector,” he said.
