By Janet Samuel
Nigeria is entering a defining moment that could spark a full industrial revival, Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce, Hon. Ahmed Munir, has said.
Speaking at the Made-in-Naija Trade Exhibition at the National Assembly, Abuja, Munir described the country as “standing on the edge of an industrial and economic rebirth,” driven by a bold shift toward local manufacturing, innovation, and targeted legislation.
Munir, who represents Lere Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, said a stronger national commitment to local content could create more than five million jobs by 2030—moving young Nigerians “from the unemployment queue to factory floors, workshops, and innovation hubs.” He said the new emphasis on domestic production restores “the dignity of labour” while laying the foundation for long-term growth.
He explained that replacing key imports with homegrown alternatives could save Nigeria up to $20 billion annually and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic priorities. With the non-oil sector now a central policy anchor, Munir projected that Made-in-Naija products could add an extra 5% to national GDP in the next five years.
Pushing the ambition further, the lawmaker stressed that Nigerian goods must compete on the global stage:
“Our vision extends beyond our borders. Nigerian products must be ready to compete not just in Lagos or Abuja but in London, Beijing, and New York.”
He also highlighted key legislative moves of the 10th National Assembly, including domestication of the AfCFTA to unlock a $3.4 trillion market, establishment of a National Weights and Measures Centre, and reforms to patent and regulatory laws to boost industrial competitiveness and attract foreign investment.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar, lauded Munir’s leadership and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening local industries. He said Nigeria must define its global relevance through what it produces, emphasising that “Made-in-Nigeria must become synonymous with quality, innovation, and competitiveness.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, also praised the initiative, calling the exhibition a “timely response to the national call for industrial growth and economic self-reliance.” He insisted that reducing import dependence is now an urgent national priority.
Munir assured that the House Committee on Commerce will continue to drive policies that build a resilient economic foundation “brick by Nigerian-made brick.” He said all pending bills and interventions aim to boost investor confidence, sustain industrial expansion, and position Nigerian products firmly on the global map.