The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government regarding the demarketing of local industries.
Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director General of MAN, emphasised the need for government agencies to foster an enabling business environment that allows local investments to flourish.
Ajayi-Kadir particularly highlighted the ongoing situation involving the Federal Government and the Dangote Refinery. He urged major actors, government agencies, and regulators in the oil and gas sector to exercise caution, stressing that no regulatory body should undermine a significant homegrown investment like the Dangote Refinery.
He pointed out that the allegations of poor quality and monopolistic practices against the Dangote Refinery by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) were unfounded.
Ajayi-Kadir reiterates the critical role of local investors, particularly Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), in driving economic growth, paying taxes, creating jobs, and fostering development in Nigeria. He called for robust protection and support for these investors to ensure they can thrive within the Nigerian business landscape.
He also noted that a business magnate like Alhaji Aliko Dangote, with extensive investments across various sectors in Africa, should receive all necessary support to expand his ventures and positively impact the well-being of the Nigerian people.