Nigeria Aims to Become Africa’s Industrial Workshop, Says President Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria will no longer just export raw materials and import finished products. Instead, the country aims to become Africa’s industrial workshop. He made this statement during a lecture and luncheon organized by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria in Lagos.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, emphasized the need for Nigeria to expand its manufacturing sector. He stated that the country wants to deepen local production and capture a larger share of the African market.

“Nigeria will not be Africa’s warehouse, storing what others make. Nigeria will be Africa’s workshop, making what Africa needs,” he said.

The President pointed out that manufacturing’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy has dropped from over 20% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the early 1990s to below 10% by 2024. He noted that while manufacturing grew slightly in early 2026, the sector still faces significant challenges.

The Nigerian Industrial Policy, introduced in February, aims to increase manufacturing’s GDP contribution to between 20% and 25% by 2030. This will be supported by industrial financing of up to 5% of GDP. Tinubu highlighted the importance of reliable energy, affordable capital, and improved security for industrial growth.

He also mentioned the African Continental Free Trade Area, which provides a market of 1.4 billion people. Tinubu urged Nigerian manufacturers to take advantage of the country’s population and resources to supply the continent.

“The government will clear the road. You must drive the trucks,” he told manufacturers, encouraging them to invest in their businesses and meet export standards.