The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has urged the Federal Government to prioritize local manufacturers for the supply of fencing materials for the ongoing Murtala Mohammed International Airport project in Lagos.
In a public statement, MAN commended the government for its infrastructure initiatives but warned against importing Clear Vu fencing, a move that would undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” policy. MAN argues that Nigerian companies have the proven capacity and technical expertise to produce high-quality fencing that meets international standards.
According to the association, sourcing these materials locally would provide significant benefits for the country, including:
- Job creation for Nigerian youths and skilled workers.
- Foreign exchange savings, which are critical for the nation’s economy.
- Increased tax revenues and a strengthened industrial base.
The statement referenced a past airport project where imported fencing materials from South Africa were used despite MAN’s advocacy, a decision that discouraged local industries and contradicted the government’s local content policies.
Segun Ajayi-Kadir, MAN’s Director-General, stated that the Lagos airport fencing project is a crucial opportunity for the current administration to demonstrate that its “Nigeria First” policy is a matter of practical implementation, not just aspiration. He called on the government to intervene and ensure that the fencing materials are sourced from competent Nigerian manufacturers, emphasizing that this is a patriotic appeal to align procurement with the national interest.
The association concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting the government’s policies to advance inclusive growth and ensure that government procurements directly benefit Nigerian businesses and citizens.
