Stakeholders in Nigeria’s non-metallic mineral products sector have made a passionate appeal to the Federal Government for more support, emphasizing the immense untapped value in this industry, which they argue surpasses that of the hydrocarbon sector. This call to action was made at the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Non-Metallic and Mineral Products Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), held in Lagos. The meeting, themed *”Exploring New Frontiers: Maximizing the Non-Metallic Industry for Diversification,”* brought together key players to discuss strategies for enhancing the sector’s contribution to national development.
During the event, Dr. Biodun Adedipe, CEO of BAA Consult and guest speaker, highlighted the need for government intervention to create a more favorable business environment for investors. He noted that the capital required for investment in non-metallic minerals is significantly lower than that of the oil and gas sector, making it an attractive area for rapid economic diversification. Dr. Adedipe expressed optimism that with proper support, the non-metallic minerals industry could play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s economy within five years, particularly by boosting the external sector.
The Chairman of the Non-Metallic and Mineral Products Sectoral Group, Mr. Afam Mallinson Ukatu, echoed these sentiments, calling on the government to collaborate with industry players to ensure the sector’s global competitiveness. According to Mr. Ukatu, the industry has demonstrated resilience despite numerous challenges. He stressed the importance of adopting pragmatic solutions to help the sector thrive both domestically and across Africa, ensuring that Nigerian manufacturers remain competitive on the global stage.
“We have the potential to drive this sector towards remarkable achievements, and by working together, we can ensure that our industry remains competitive globally,” said Ukatu. He also commended the leadership of MAN under President Otunba Francis Meshioye and Director-General Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir for their unwavering commitment to advocating for the sector’s growth. Ukatu praised the association’s leadership for providing guidance that has helped strengthen the sector’s role in national development.
Speaking further, Ukatu acknowledged the theme of the AGM, “Exploring New Frontiers: Maximizing the Non-Metallic Industry for Diversification,” as timely and significant. He emphasized that the sector is critical to Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure development, particularly in addressing the country’s estimated 28 million housing deficit. Ukatu encouraged industry players to align with national strategies to help close this gap, noting that the sector’s contributions are essential in producing materials that are vital to solving this national challenge.
Despite facing challenges such as infrastructural deficits, regulatory hurdles, and competition from substandard imports, Mr. Ukatu remained hopeful. He thanked members for their support and urged them to continue backing the newly elected leadership, led by Mr. Javed Ahmed. He also extended his gratitude to the media for their role in promoting the manufacturing sector’s ideals, which he believes are critical to the nation’s long-term economic progress.
In his remarks, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director-General of MAN, lauded the outgoing chairman, Mr. Ukatu, for his visionary leadership, which has brought renewed energy and focus to the sector. Representing MAN at the AGM, Ajayi-Kadir praised the sector’s continued growth despite the country’s economic challenges, crediting industry players’ resilience and innovation for keeping the non-metallic minerals sector robust and contributing to Nigeria’s evolving industrial landscape.
“The Annual General Meeting goes beyond fulfilling statutory requirements,” Ajayi-Kadir stated. “It is a moment for reflection and a chance to review the achievements of the past year, assess the challenges we’ve encountered, and renew our commitment to fostering a conducive and profitable environment for all member companies.” He reaffirmed MAN’s dedication to advocating for policies that ensure the growth and sustainability of the non-metallic mineral sector.
As the AGM concluded, stakeholders left with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective vision to push for greater government support. They remain optimistic that with the right policies and partnerships, the non-metallic mineral sector can become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic diversification and growth strategy.
