Khalil Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” Policy, asserting that it will significantly empower local entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and technology innovators.
In a statement released on Monday by NASENI’s Director of Information, Mr. Segun Ayeoyenikan, Halilu praised the policy as a decisive step towards accelerating Nigeria’s industrial revolution and fostering economic growth.
“We are determined to be at the forefront of implementing the President’s vision.”
Halilu specifically commended the directive issued to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines that prioritize local suppliers.
He emphasized that increased government patronage of Nigerian-made goods would stimulate demand across vital sectors of the economy.
He described the policy as both forward-thinking and revolutionary, noting that NASENI has consistently advocated for local content through its various initiatives.
Halilu cited NASENI’s contributions, including the production of Nigerian-assembled vehicles, energy systems, smart irrigation tools, and electronic devices, as evidence of the competitiveness of local manufacturing.
Furthermore, he highlighted NASENI’s ongoing Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group meetings, which are designed to identify obstacles and promote solutions aimed at enhancing consumer confidence in locally produced goods.
Halilu urged local producers to maintain high standards and reaffirmed NASENI’s commitment to leading the implementation of the President’s vision, stating, “We have seen the capacity and competence of our local manufacturers, they are ready.”