Nigeria is intensifying efforts to transform its economy through strategic investments in the mining and automotive sectors. In a recent meeting in Abuja, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, met with Senator John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, to align on industrial priorities under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The discussion focused on actionable plans to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports and reposition it as a production- and export-driven economy. Senator Enoh reaffirmed the government’s dedication to advancing key sectors—automobiles, sugar, and the cotton-textile-garment value chain—each supported by dedicated industry councils.
At the heart of this industrial push is the Nigeria First Policy, a presidential directive mandating all government agencies to prioritise local goods and services in procurement. The policy is already reshaping supply chains, creating jobs, and reducing import reliance.
Tegbe highlighted Nigeria’s potential to replicate Brazil’s 2024 export success to China—valued at $94.41 billion—by focusing on high-impact areas like agriculture, solid minerals, and manufacturing. He underscored the need to develop Nigeria’s 40+ commercially viable minerals through local processing and refining rather than raw exports. This agenda is supported by regulatory reforms and incentives designed to attract investment.
The Presidential Council on Industrial Revitalisation has activated Industrial Revolution Working Groups to eliminate regulatory barriers, improve infrastructure, and boost access to financing in the mining sector.
Simultaneously, Nigeria is investing in its automotive industry to establish itself as a regional hub for vehicle assembly and full manufacturing. The Nigeria First Policy has already increased demand for locally assembled vehicles, and efforts are underway to expand into advanced manufacturing, integrating local supply chains and embracing electric and energy-efficient vehicles.
